Policy


Van Hitch

Smart government IT can be a catalyst for change

The current budget crisis could be an opportunity for federal CIOs to help their agencies build a smarter, more efficient and more cost-effective government.

Steve VanRoekel 102012

The state of the CIO

The role of the CIO in federal agencies has never been exactly clear. Over the years, debates about the nature of the job and the CIO's proper authority have periodically flared. Here, current and former federal IT executives take stock of the progress CIOs have made and what they can do to ensure future success.

Michael Basla AF CIO

Air Force leaders tout cyber capabilities

Cyber warfare isn't a new domain anymore, but it still takes time to prepare for it, top Air Force officials said.

DHS logo

DHS continues revising acquisition rules

Responding to IG pressure, the Homeland Security Department has been revamping its rules for awarding risky cost reimbursement contracts rather than safer fixed-price options.

DHS seal

IG chides DHS for careless acquisition practices

A DHS technology acquisition program needs a change in status to make it subject to greater review, IG finds.

John Gingrich, VA

VA leaders defend chief of staff

Veterans Affairs leaders rebuff congressional calls for the removal of John Gingrich over his responsibility for spending abuses.

padlocked keyboard

Cyberattacks on the upswing

A new survey finds cyberattacks against U.S. targets – both public and private sector – are increasing dramatically in frequency and cost.

DOD IG logo

Military services falter on single-bid contract guidance

An audit finds that DOD agencies often award contracts to the only bidder without trying to expand competition, despite DOD's own guidance.

John Gingrich, VA

Agencies take action as GAO knocks strategic sourcing effort

After an audit found that agencies have made very little use of strategic sourcing, DOD and other agencies point to some reforms, pledge to make more.

credit card

Abuse prevention for government charge cards becomes law

The president signed a bill that will put more controls on the use of government charge cards.

Janet Napolitano

Cybersecurity awareness descends on Washington

Cybersecurity Month has sparked a renewed push to talk up the urgency of the risk and the need for solutions.

Joe Jordan

Departments missing chance to save big money

A pending report on four key agencies finds less than 5 percent of FY 2011 procurement was managed through strategic sourcing.