Space Project Testing: Uniform Policies and Added Controls Would Strengthen Testing Activities
NSIAD-91-248
Published: Sep 16, 1991. Publicly Released: Sep 25, 1991.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) testing activities, focusing on: (1) the adequacy of the NASA testing policies and practices; (2) NASA oversight of contractor testing; and (3) the adequacy of resources available for testing.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| National Aeronautics and Space Administration | The Administrator, NASA, should: (1) issue testing policies that define the NASA testing goals; (2) establish agencywide minimum requirements for space system test programs; and (3) define organizational roles and responsibilities for ensuring that tests are properly planned, conducted, and reported. The policy should require officials to prepare a comprehensive test plan for each project showing how each performance requirement will be validated and the controls established to ensure that validation activities are properly planned, conducted, and reported. |
Closed – Implemented
In November 1993, NASA issued Handbook 7120.5 entitled "Management of Major System Programs and Projects." The applicable chapters of this handbook addressed the GAO recommendation.
|
| National Aeronautics and Space Administration | The Administrator, NASA, should develop agencywide test standards to ensure consistent qualification and acceptance testing for all hardware. |
Closed – Implemented
In November 1993, NASA issued Handbook 7120.5 entitled "Management of Major System Programs and Projects." The applicable chapters of this handbook addressed the GAO recommendation.
|
| National Aeronautics and Space Administration | The Administrator, NASA, should require that all centers: (1) approve contractor-prepared test plans and procedures for critical tests; (2) implement procedures for independent reviews of testing on all major programs; and (3) review each project to determine if adequate personnel with needed skills are available to monitor critical contractor tests. |
Closed – Implemented
In November 1993, NASA issued Handbook 7120.5 entitled "Management of Major System Programs and Projects." The applicable chapters of this handbook addressed the GAO recommendation.
|
| National Aeronautics and Space Administration | The Administrator, NASA, should require that each project test plan fully disclose any testing limitation that increases technical risk and describe actions to be taken to minimize the risk. |
Closed – Implemented
In November 1993, NASA issued Handbook 7120.5 entitled "Management of Major System Programs and Projects." The applicable chapters of this handbook addressed the GAO recommendation.
|
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