The Standish Group believes that not only can GPRA help taxpayers at large, by minimizing spending and focusing government efforts on tangible results, we also think it can help the agencies themselves and the individuals who work for these agencies. By insuring a clear purpose for projects, insuring communication at a higher level, and accounting for decisions on plans and the execution of these plans, GPRA is able to enforce good project management principles. This results in more applications that are delivered on time, on budget, and with the required features and functions. Because of this, GPRA has become ensnared in the typical bureaucracy. Overcoming Barriers GPRA faces some barriers that are not easy to overcome.
Cultural factors are significant and widespread.
From the officials who must be involved for success, to the individuals who work for the agencies delivering solutions, a mindset change is needed. This requires education and promotion of the principles and benefits of the legislation. In addition, proper tools and procedures must be put in place and followed through, and an ongoing review of the process is required. Through our special GPRA workshops it became clear that GPRA is traveling a long, hard road. Congressional interest in GPRA is episodic rather than steadfastly supportive, and the understanding of the law among those who most follow it is weak.