Semiannual Report to Congress: April 1 - September 30, 1997

October 31, 1997

1997 Inspector General Semiannual Report to Congress

During this reporting period, the Office of Inspector General continued to advise Headquarters and field managers of opportunities to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department's management controls, with particular emphasis on coverage of issues addressed in the Department's Strategic Plan. We also have supported the Department's reinvention and streamlining initiatives by evaluating the cost effectiveness and overall efficiency of Department programs and operations, placing special emphasis on key issue areas which have historically benefited from Office of Inspector General attention. In addition, we have concentrated on reviewing performance-based contracts and cost reduction incentive programs. We view these efforts as assisting the Department in implementing the Government Performance and Results Act which requires the Department to establish strategic planning and performance measurement.