Information Technology Utilization by the Federal Government

GAO discussed the federal government's utilization of information technology. GAO found that: (1) federal agencies were experiencing numerous problems in acquiring and developing the information systems necessary to manage government operations; (2) many systems do not work as planned and have experienced cost overruns and schedule delays; and (3) agencies do not clearly define their needs, consider alternative approaches, or adequately involve top management in system development. GAO believes that: (1) top agency management must become knowledgeable and involved with the decisions being made to satisfy agency information management needs; (2) Congress should review the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs' coordination and evaluation of agency information practices; and (3) Congress should continue to encourage effective information management.