Use of Corps Electronic Signature System

The Air Force requested that GAO sanction its use of the Army Corps of Engineers' Prototype Electronic Signature System for its data interchange project. GAO noted that: (1) it sanctioned the Corps' prototype system in January 1993 on a test basis; (2) the Corps plans to evaluate its prototype system in early 1995, at which time additional needed controls may be identified before GAO can sanction the operational system; (3) the Air Force can use the Corps' system if it incorporates any needed changes into its system, a federal agency generates and distributes the smart cards, and the Corps' system is properly integrated into its application; (4) an external party should review the system's integration to ensure its adequacy; and (5) GAO approval of the system's use does not constitute approval of the base's financial management system, although the use of the Corps' system will significantly reduce the base's costs, risks, and time frames.