GAO Role in Making Information Management Work

The role of GAO was discussed in implementing the information resources management principles established by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980. GAO participated extensively in the efforts leading to passage of the Act and plans to continue its efforts to aid in its implementation, consistent with the wishes of Congress. While the legislation initially stemmed from a growing concern about the burden imposed on the public, during the legislative process Congress recognized the broader issues associated with the collection, use, dissemination, and disposal of information and the new technology available to do those things faster, better, and cheaper. These issues and concerns were supported by numerous studies and reports from a wide variety of sources, all of which recommended improvements in Federal information management. The first essential element of the Act is the establishment of a strong central management structure in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This structure is to include the authority, responsibility, and accountability for promulgating sound information management policies and for overseeing the Department's and agencies' implementation of those policies. The second essential element of the Act is implementing its charter of responsibilities for the Departments and agencies. The Act calls for a senior official to be designated in each agency who will report directly to the agency head and be held responsible for managing all information activities. Although the law does not specifically mandate that the agency offices be identical to the OMB office, it is clear that a high degree of compatibility was intended. The third element, which GAO intends to emphasize during the next several months, is an assessment of the opportunities for applying information technology to reduce costs and improve service delivery. Many Federal agencies have successfully applied modern technology to enhance their ability to carry out their missions. GAO believes that additional opportunities exist and will devote a substantial amount of resources to identifying them as the implementation of the Act proceeds. GAO will be heavily involved in assessing for Congress the progress toward implementing the Act. GAO believes that the Act is landmark legislation with tremendous potential for improving the Federal Government's information management activities.