Continuity of Operations Agency Plans Have Improved, But Better Oversight Could Assist Agencies in Preparing for Emergencies

By Koontz, Linda D.

Book Id: WPLBN0000192687
Format Type: PDF eBook
File Size: 0.8 MB
Reproduction Date: 2005

Title:	Continuity of Operations Agency Plans Have Improved, But Better Oversight Could Assist Agencies in Preparing for Emergencies
Author:	Koontz, Linda D.
Volume:
Language:	English
Subject:	Government publications, Accountability in government, United States. General Accounting Office
Collections:	Government Library Collection, Government Accountability Integrity Reliability Office Collection
Historic Publication Date:
Publisher:	United States General Accounting Office (Gao)


Citation APA MLA Chicago Koontz, L. D. (n.d.). Continuity of Operations Agency Plans Have Improved, But Better Oversight Could Assist Agencies in Preparing for Emergencies. Retrieved from http://self.gutenberg.org/

Description
Government Accountability Integrity Reliability Office Collection

Excerpt
Excerpt: Many of the 23 agencies that GAO reviewed reported using sound practices for identifying and validating essential functions (see table), but few provided documentation sufficient for GAO to confirm their responses. This indicates that agencies-although aware of the practices-may not have followed them thoroughly or effectively. Further, the essential functions identified by agencies varied widely: the number of functions identified in each plan ranged from 3 to 538 and included ones that appeared to be of secondary importance. A major factor contributing to these shortcomings was that FEMA?s guidance did not provide specific criteria for identifying essential functions. Subsequent guidance from FEMA and the White House significantly addresses the sound practices GAO identified. In addition, the White House plans further actions to improve continuity planning. If this guidance and these follow-up actions are implemented effectively, they could lead to improved identification of essential functions in the executive branch.