Increases and schedule delays for many major information technology systems

Software development approaches are helping avoid cost increases and schedule delays for many major information technology systems, but the uneven implementation of cybersecurity best practices may be introducing risk to these programs, according to the watchdog report.

While GAO didn’t make any specific recommendations in the audit, DOD in its comments said the audit “highlight[s] opportunities for continued improvement to acquiring IT capabilities.” The main challenge for DOD’s major IT systems is the agency’s mixed record on incorporating cybersecurity best practices.

While all 15 programs are using cybersecurity strategies, only eight conducted cybersecurity vulnerability assessments, which help determine whether security measures are strong enough. In addition, 11 of the 15 programs conducted operational cybersecurity testing, but only six conducted developmental cyber security testing. Navy information technology computer science engineer salary experts needed computer and networking support for more than 650,000 Navy and Marine Corps users of the Next Generation Enterprise Network (NGEN). They found their solution from Perspecta Enterprise Solutions LLC in Herndon, Va.