Oversight
State and local governments boost GSA schedule technology purchases
Sales of wireless services and green computing products lead to big increase in orders.
Tech
Microsoft announces principles to encourage interoperability
Changes could mean simpler integration of systems for federal agencies.
Tech
GSA drives green IT procurements
Agency official touts efforts to reduce energy consumption; hints at pending acquisition regulations.
Oversight
Agencies’ transition to new telecom system slow
GSA says a lack of resources and buy-in from top officials are to blame for prolonged transfer to Networx.
Oversight
Industry hoping for action on data security bill this year
Legislation would update the six-year-old bill establishing requirements for securing personal or sensitive data.
Defense
Security clearance process still a paperwork exercise
Technology association official says only a Web-based system will reduce backlog of needed clearances.
Oversight
Surplus federal computers not reaching rural towns
Advocates push for passage of a bill that would direct federal surplus property to communities in need.
Tech
Government still suffers from information insecurity
Ensuring only authorized users have access to data is among the top challenges facing agencies, says GAO.
Defense
Defense, GSA lead way on encryption technology
Agencies save $58 million on technology to protect sensitive data.
Pay & Benefits
Vets' groups urge IT budget boost for benefits processing
The agency would see 18 percent cut under president’s 2009 request.
Defense
Defense agency submits blast-proof budget request for White House communications
Proposal includes development of network for president and other top officials that could operate after nuclear blast.
Defense
Homeland Security plans to modernize Coast Guard navigation system
After teetering on the edge of shutdown, LORAN will be upgraded as backup for Global Positioning System.
Defense
Coast Guard seeks to restructure major commands
Changes would redefine senior leadership positions.
Defense
House subpanel approves border patrol technology
Bill also calls for pilot projects to determine the efficacy of technologies such as unmanned aircraft.
Oversight
OMB touts savings from e-gov initiatives
Agencies report shutting down more than 100 systems in governmentwide consolidation.
Defense
Bush administration proposes $7.3 billion for IT security
Five agencies rank as unsatisfactory in cybersecurity compliance.
Defense
Defense Information Systems Agency seeks big budget boost
Requirement to support operations in Iraq, Afghanistan leads to request for 30 percent increase.
Defense
Border security dominates DHS technology budget request
Cybersecurity funds largely will come from alternative sources.
Oversight
FDA seeks budget increase for food, medical product inspections
Request comes amid Hill’s call for an investigation into agency operations.
Defense