Development, Implementation, and Operation of the Defense Integrated Data System

An investigation was conducted on the design, development, implementation, and operation of the Defense Integrated Data System. The extent to which the system will accomplish the objectives set forth for it by the Department of Defense was evaluated.

A valid need exists for a central Federal repository for item identification and related cataloging data to complement the Federal Supply System. However, it does not presently appear that this system will completely achieve its planned performance objectives, because it is not able to: produce timely, accurate information for its intended users; eliminate the duplicate files and publications created and maintained by the military services; nor efficiently and effectively interchange information with other Defense Department systems. These conditions are attributable to deficiencies in the system's design, the unwillingness of the military services to fully support and use the system, and the apparent lack of any central authority to enforce user participation. Although about $103 million has been spent on the system so far, DOD has been unable to identify any cost savings or cost avoidance associated with its use.

Recommendations

Our recommendations from this work are listed below with a Contact for more information. Status will change from "In process" to "Open," "Closed - implemented," or "Closed - not implemented" based on our follow up work.

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