In a separate audit, the Energy IG concluded that the department has not effectively managed its IT hardware acquisition process or fully developed and implemented an IT supply chain risk management program, leading it to spend $2 million more than necessary across eight sites in fiscal 2012.
Based on cost data obtained from eight sites, DoE likely spent over $125 million in fiscal 2012 on IT hardware such as servers, desktops, laptops and printers, the IG said, attributing that to the lack of a comprehensive approach to IT hardware management.
Further, the department and its facility contractors do not always develop and enforce hardware standards; implement procedures to ensure organizations and sites effectively coordinated acquisition efforts; and fully leverage enterprise-wide purchasing agreements, according to the IG.
It said that while positive actions had been taken, additional effort is necessary to ensure the department effectively manages IT hardware acquisition and maintenance that could potentially save $6 million over the next three years at just the eight locations reviewed.
Recommendations include coordinating IT hardware procurement among headquarters and field sites, implementing an effective supply chain risk management process, ensuring sites receive the best value from vendors (i.e. the lowest price they offer anyone else), as well as reviewing sole-source IT hardware-related contracts and compete them if appropriate.
Audit Report: DOE/IG-0926
