Summary: GAO presented its information resources management (IRM) strategic plan, focusing on: (1) how its mission will be supported by its IRM strategy; and (2) the adequacy of its existing information tools and systems. GAO noted that: (1) the goal of its IRM strategic plan is to allow GAO work groups to be more self-sufficient in meeting the information requirements of their jobs; (2) while defining GAO business needs is the first step in determining GAO IRM requirements, doing so is difficult because GAO needs are changing; (3) GAO has identified a flexible mixture of hardware, software, and services needed to meet its evolving business requirements; (4) GAO is developing a new IRM architecture that will accommodate future technologies and provide longevity and stability; (5) the new IRM strategic plan will impose challenges on GAO cultural, human, and financial resources; and (6) to realize the goals of its IRM strategic plan, GAO must strive to fully develop its computer network, increase access to information, enhance electronic communications, publish and distribute information and products in an electronic format, and support administrative and mission applications.
