HUD has taken initial steps toward applying key project management practices for IT modernization efforts, but needs to improve key project management practices, GAO has said.
It said HUD has not fully implemented key practices in executing and managing the Federal Housing Administration Transformation Initiative, designed to address performance gaps in housing insurance programs, or in the Next Generation Management System, designed to improve management of its affordable housing programs, according to GAO-13-455.
It said that while the department has developed project management artifacts such as charters and requirements management plans, none of the documents included all the key details that could facilitate effective management of its projects such as full descriptions of the work necessary to complete the projects, cost and schedule baselines, or prioritized requirements, among other things.
Because HUD has not taken these foundational steps to fully define its modernization efforts, the department is not well positioned to successfully manage or execute the associated projects, GAO said.
It also cited inadequate development and use of the department’s project management framework, which did not ensure the quality or completeness of artifacts developed.
HUD agreed with recommendations to improve its framework and governance, but did not entirely agree with the need to develop a plan of action.
