Financial data is captured as a byproduct of program and administrative operations whenever feasible. Rather than typing the required data on a purchase requisition form, travel form, etc., the system produces the form electronically, while concurrently recording the appropriate accounting transactions. Managers immediately know the impact of intended expenditures against their budgets. Rather than creating a purchase request and only then determining whether funding is available, the system accomplishes this step as a byproduct of creating the request.
Embedded intelligence is used throughout the system to significantly improve data integrity.
The cost savings realized through reduced data reconciliation and correction are an important benefit of embedded intelligence. Official financial data are maintained as close as possible to the source, and in the format needed by program managers, while concurrently supporting the official accounting records of the bureau. Data integrity is enhanced by the elimination of data redundancy and data reconciliation.