Greater Emphasis on Testing Needed To Make Computer Software More Reliable and Less Costly

Highlights

GAO evaluated the adequacy and effectiveness of federal agencies' software testing practices.

Recommendations

Recommendations for Executive Action

Agency Affected	Recommendation	Status
Heads of Federal Agencies	The heads of federal agencies should establish written software testing policies and requirements defining the testing procedures, criteria, and techniques required before either agency- or contractor-developed software is placed into operation. These should include specific requirements for user participation in the testing process.	Closed – Implemented When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Heads of Federal Agencies	The heads of federal agencies should monitor and enforce compliance with testing policies and requirements.	Closed – Implemented When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Heads of Federal Agencies	The heads of federal agencies should periodically evaluate the software testing process to determine: (1) its effectiveness in preventing errors and reducing costs associated with error correction; and (2) appropriate allocation of staff and computer resources to software testing.	Closed – Implemented When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Heads of Federal Agencies	The heads of federal agencies should identify and incorporate into the testing process those automated tools and testing techniques that can help the agency provide more thorough testing and more efficient resource use. This should include providing appropriate training on these tools and techniques.	Closed – Implemented When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
General Services Administration	The Administrator of General Services, through the Office of Software Development, should review selected software development projects in federal agencies to identify uses and potential uses of software tools and techniques that improve testing thoroughness and efficiency. This office should then report on these reviews to provide guidance to agencies for implementing tools and techniques in their testing procedures.	Closed – Implemented When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.

See All 5 Recommendations

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Topics

Auditing and Financial Management

SoftwareCost controlTestingData errorsPayroll recordsFederal agenciesApplication softwareElectronic data processingInternal controlsSpecifications