GAO recommends performance measures for new security agency

The Bush administration must develop clear goals and performance measures for agencies that will be merged into the proposed Department of Homeland Security, according to an official from the General Accounting Office.

"The nation does not yet have a comprehensive set of performance goals and measures upon which to assess and improve prevention efforts, vulnerability reduction and responsiveness to damage and recovery needs at all levels of government," said Patricia Dalton, GAO's director of strategic issues.

Dalton testified Tuesday about the organizational and management issues facing the proposed Homeland Security Department before the House Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Efficiency, Financial Management and Intergovernmental Relations.

Leadership roles and responsibilities need to be clarified, performance goals and measures need to be developed, and administration officials must craft a plan that effectively incorporates all levels of government, Dalton told lawmakers.

"Decision-makers have to balance the national interest of prevention and preparedness with the unique needs and interests of local communities," she said, adding that a "one-size-fits-all" approach would not work.

Dalton said the Bush administration plan was a good start, but emphasized the need for establishing tools to determine the quality of homeland security being provided by the government and recommended that leaders use the 1993 Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) to develop goals and accountability measures. Under GPRA, agencies must write strategic plans and prepare annual performance plans and reports.

"Until the new department is operational, GPRA can be a useful tool in developing homeland security implementation plans within and across federal agencies," Dalton said. "Given the recent and proposed increase in homeland security funding, as well as the need for real and meaningful improvements in preparedness, establishing clear goals and performance measures is critical to ensuring a successful and fiscally responsible effort."