Need To Improve Management of ACDA's Automatic Data Processing and Operations Analysis Functions
NSIAD-83-66
Published: Sep 30, 1983. Publicly Released: Sep 30, 1983.
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Highlights
In response to a congressional request, GAO examined the management of computer-based support functions at the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency (ACDA).
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| United States Arms Control and Disarmament Agency | The Director, ACDA, should develop a comprehensive ADP planning process, which requires top management involvement, well supported justification of stated needs, and periodic feedback from users. |
Closed – Implemented
ACDA completed an agencywide task force review that appears to: (1) address areas not previously covered; and (2) meet the recommendation. Although a key ADP official informed GAO that written feedback on certain programs is not being solicited on a regular basis, GAO believes that ACDA overall actions warrant the closing of this recommendation.
|
| United States Arms Control and Disarmament Agency | The Director, ACDA, should implement an ADP cost accounting system which complies with OMB Circular A-121. |
Closed – Not Implemented
ACDA officials stated that they can now obtain the data called for in this recommendation, but have resisted doing so on a regular basis. They assert that to do so would be unnecessary and time consuming. Given this continued resistance, the age of the report, and the effort that would be required to reaffirm the need for action, GAO believes that this recommendation should be closed.
|
| United States Arms Control and Disarmament Agency | The Director, ACDA, should establish a computer security program which complies with Transmittal Memorandum Number 1 to OMB Circular A-71. |
Closed – Implemented
ACDA upgraded security of its ADP operations in response to the report. However, the agency has not provided information to demonstrate that the upgrade meets all of the specific requirements of TM 1/OMB A-71.
|
| United States Arms Control and Disarmament Agency | The Director, ACDA, should periodically assess ACDA operations analysis needs and capabilities, and determine what adjustments in allocated resources, organizational structures, and access to other agencies' resources are required to best meet identified needs. |
Closed – Implemented
ACDA completed a detailed review of analytical needs and made organizational and technical adjustments.
|
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Topics
Budget cutsComputer support servicesCost accountingElectronic data processingFacility securityIT acquisitionsManagement information systemsPlanningComputer resources managementOperations research