There are a lot of good things happening, but they just miss the mark. In fact, the task force report states that the Defense Science Board has been urging action on this problem for three years. Recommendations offered by the task force include improvements at all levels, from personnel, to technology, to resources. The problem identified by the Defense Science Board, and the number one recommendation, was the need to get a real focal point. The problem in finding a qualified person, Andrews claims, is that there is a legitimate demand in the commercial world for just such a highly qualified person.
Most companies can surpass the compensation the government can afford to offer.
In addition, the job security once associated with government positions no longer exists, and restrictions, which limit the types of employment or programs a person can enter after leaving a high-level position, make the job unattractive to the type of person needed to fill this spot, he explains. As a result, no focal point exists for the defensive information warfare effort, Andrews points out. A multipronged approach toward securing information technology currently is underway at DISA, according to Col. Several teams attempt penetrations and determine viruses in the Defense Department. This is a real success story.