News

Web sites of both presidential candidates fail to connect with users

Two recent studies say online sites of McCain, Obama are difficult to navigate and confusing to voters.

Tech

From Nextgov.com: OMB will require agencies to use Networx

Memo states they must justify by analysis any decision to not switch over to the new telecommunications contract .

Tech

From Nextgov.com: Agencies progress in identifying, consolidating IT infrastructure

But the line of business needs backup systems and disaster recovery plans to avert shut downs, observers say .

Defense

From Nextgov.com: DHS unveils wireless radio for emergency response

D.C. public safety officials will test the technology , but are skeptical that wireless networks will remain open during disasters.

Tech

From Nextgov.com: Latest cybersecurity threat lies in trusted software and hardware

Justice e-mail is indicative of a larger threat agencies face called supply-chain attacks .

Defense

From Nextgov.com: Requirement to scan all inbound sea cargo sparks security concerns

GAO says 100 percent screening would strain resources, making it less effective than the current risk-based approach.

Features

Back to Business

Embattled administrator’s exit has allowed GSA’s acquisition activities to take center stage again.

Defense

From Nextgov.com: TSA needs to improve undercover aviation security tests, GAO says

Homeland Security agency urged to document all instances during simulated exercises when screening equipment fails.

Tech

Census chief says all sides at fault for handheld problems

Leadership changes will strengthen management of information technology projects, according to Steven Murdock.

Tech

From Nextgov.com: Defense must improve assessment of IT systems

The department has not shown that its business systems are in compliance with its computer systems blueprint .

Tech

From Nextgov.com: Project managers urged to analyze past performance

Report encourages agencies to maintain a database with records of successes and failures to serve as a guide for future endeavors.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: Bill would increase oversight of federal IT projects

Agencies would have to report on projects experiencing cost increases or delays .

Tech

From Nextgov.com: New legislation would give security chiefs more power

Bill also would set up a forum for discussing cybersecurity issues, and a unit to test government's cyber defenses.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: Agencies on track for move to Networx

Report reviews six plans for impending transition to the federal government’s largest-ever telecommunications contract .

Oversight

Lawmakers question GSA nominee over Sun Microsystems deal

Jim Williams denies charges he was involved in pressuring procurement shop into awarding contract extension.

News

From Nextgov.com: Census considers a smaller role for decennial count contractor

A final estimate putting the cost of canvassing and field office support at $988 million could cause the agency to limit Harris Corp.’s involvement .

Oversight

Report: Progress mixed on tracking IT equipment

Agencies are taking a proactive approach to IT asset management, but lack proper funding.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: Decennial census could cost billions more

GAO says 2010 estimate fails to account for all operations and is not accurate.

Oversight

Billing problems to third-party insurers plague VA

Systems' failure to track payments brings into question $1.7 billion in unbilled services, GAO says.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: Census re-examines using Internet for 2010 count

After years of arguing with Congress against providing an online method to submit information, the bureau is back to seriously studying the option.