Problems in Managing and Planning of Information Resources Persist at the Army Corps of Engineers

Gao ID: CED-82-28 June 9, 1982

GAO was asked to review the Army Corps of Engineers' effectiveness in planning, acquiring, managing, and using information resources, specifically automatic data processing (ADP).

The Corps has become increasingly dependent on information resources, including computers and telecommunications, software systems, and personnel, to accomplish its mission and program objectives. However, the agency has experienced numerous problems in the management, acquisition, and use of its ADP resources. Its organizational structure and management approach have a number of weaknesses, including the lack of: (1) a single focus of responsibility or coherent system for managing information resources; (2) a formal oversight mechanism to ensure effective management and use of information systems and computer software; (3) an enforcement mechanism for controlling and coordinating the development of software applications; (4) a comprehensive planning process to help manage, acquire, and use information resources; and (5) a uniform method for evaluating the use and performance of computers and related information resources. A major computer hardware replacement program, CE-80, has been plagued by planning and management problems which raise doubts that the program will provide the most effective and efficient way to meet future requirements. A central office for implementing a comprehensive management program for information resources is needed. GAO believes that the Paperwork Reduction Act offers the Corps an appropriate framework for strengthening its management of information resources, including ADP.

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.

Director: Lowell Dodge Team: General Accounting Office: Community and Economic Development Division Phone: (202) 512-8389


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