Summary: In fiscal year 1999, GAO returned more than $57 for every $1 appropriated to the agency. For example, GAO helped improve the nursing home survey process and made the public aware of identity theft. In response, Congress passed legislation that criminalized theft and misuse of personal identifying information. GAO reported fraud and waste in the supplemental security program, which prompted the Social Security Administration to ask for authority to recover current overpayments. GAO has played an important role in helping Congress and federal agencies improve the government's computer security. Although the agency's staffing has fallen from 5,300 employees in the early 1990s to 3,300 employees today, congressional requests for GAO's work have risen significantly. GAO has four strategic goals: (1) addressing current and emerging challenges to the wellbeing and financial security of the American people in such areas as health care retirement income security, and education and workforce issues; (2) responding to changing security threats and the challenges of global interdependence; (3) supporting the transition to a more results-oriented and accountable federal government; and (4) being a model organization for the federal government. Key efforts include (1) implementing a model strategic and annual planning and reporting process, (2) aligning human capital policies and practices to support the agency's mission, (3) cultivating and fostering effective congressional and agency relations, (4) developing efficient and responsive business processes, and (5) building an integrated and reliable information technology infrastructure. Finally, GAO faces the challenge of streamlining operations while building on responsiveness and flexibility.
