National Air and Space Museum Extension Site Selection Process
T-GGD-91-5
Published: Feb 05, 1991. Publicly Released: Feb 05, 1991.
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Highlights
GAO discussed the Smithsonian Institution's site selection process for an extension to the National Air and Space Museum. GAO noted that the Smithsonian: (1) site selection process was not systematic, open, or cost-conscious enough to ensure the selection of the most cost-effective site; (2) failed to rank its requirements or distinguish between essential and desirable attributes; (3) never publicly announced its needs, and therefore had no assurance that the three offers it received encompassed all potentially competitive sites; and (4) failed to completely analyze the three proposals.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Smithsonian Institution | The Smithsonian should reopen its selection decision and use a more systematic and competitive process to better ensure that it and the government get the best value for their investments. |
Closed – Implemented
The Smithsonian reduced the scope of the project by $193 million and did additional cost analyses. GAO is still monitoring the outcome of the reduced project.
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Topics
AircraftAirportsComparative analysisCompetitive procurementCost effectiveness analysisEvaluation criteriaFederal facilitiesLife cycle costsMuseumsSite selection