Open Government PlanOur Open Government Plan responds to the Dec. 8, 2009 White House Open Government Directive and is divided into 10 major sections: 1. Executive Summary; 2. Introduction; 3. Leadership, Governance and Culture Change; 4. Open Government Engagement Dialogue; 5. Transparency; 6. Participation; 7. Collaboration; 8. Flagship Initiatives; 9. Cross-Agency Transferability; and 10. Conclusion. The Appendices are included at the end of the plan to allow for easy extraction of stand alone information such as the Strategic Action Plan for Transparency, included as Appendix 3.We Need Your Input. This plan is designed to be a blueprint of our current and on-going activities to advance a culture of openness here at GSA. We look forward to engaging our employees, stakeholders and the public to further improve GSA. GSA welcomes your input to help improve our operations, streamline the services we provide, and strengthen our customer relationships. Please email us at Open.Government@gsa.gov to let us know: * What data or information do you want GSA to make available to the public? * What additional open government activities would you like to see GSA involved in? * What would you like us to include in our updated open government plan? * How you would like our /Open webpage to evolve?U.S. General Services AdministrationGSA_ac81eeec-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2aThe U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) touches the lives of nearly every U.S. citizen. We celebrated our 60th anniversary in 2009 and are probably best known in our unofficial capacity as the nation’s landlord. GSA’s Public Building Services (PBS) acquires space on behalf of the federal government through new construction and leasing, and acts as a caretaker for federal properties across the country. We provide office space to more than a million federal employees across the nation and oversee the preservation of over 400 historic buildings. GSA also influences the management of $500 billion in federal assets. GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service (FAS) is the lead organization for procurement of products and services (other than buildings and land) for the federal government.Martha N. JohnsonAdministrator_ac81f568-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a_ac81f824-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2aLEADERSHIP, GOVERNANCE AND CULTURE CHANGE_ac81f9d2-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3Open Government Plan Governance and ApproachEstablish leadership roles to meet the requirements of the Open Government Directive._ac81fb6c-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.1GSA approached the development of this plan by establishing leadership roles to meet the requirements of the Open Government Directive. In addition, GSA: * assigned two senior executive sponsors to serve as lead and co-lead and to oversee the open government planning; * designated a senior accountable official to implement the quality framework over financial data; * established an open government Program Management Office to manage the Open Government Directive requirements and reporting; and * created an open government working group to enable cross-functional planning. GSA also has representatives on various Office of Management and Budget interagency groups to assist with further planning and criteria development. Senior executives with open government responsibilities who are involved in the governance are: the Deputy Administrator, Administrators for the Office of Governmentwide Policy, and the Office of Citizen Services and Communication, the Chief Information Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, and the Chief Freedom of Information Act Officer. Figure 1 is the open government governance chart that shows GSA’s executive sponsors, working group and GSA’s representation on the OMB subworking groups. As part of GSA’s governance, the open government executives will work with Federal Acquisition Service and Public Building Services to identify future open government activities in these core mission areas. We will update our Plan to include these activities and timeframes. GSA’s Open Government Communications Plan, included as Appendix 1, shares the Administrator’s commitment to provide a consistent message throughout the organization that open government principles are to be incorporated in the way GSA executes its mission.Open Government Alignment with GSA’s Strategic TransformationGSA's strategic plan, performance goals, and budget process will guide the agency’s action to implement the open government plan._ac81fd2e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2Anthony CostaAssociate Administrator - will work to strengthen the strategic thinking and will focus on ways for GSA’s leadership and employees to fully engage in strategic planning and implementation.GSA’s administrator fully supports the president’s open government guidance and cites it as a fundamental change in government culture and operations. The administrator believes that GSA also needs to change fundamental behaviors, methods, and processes to reach new transformational goals. To reach these goals and sustain the open government momentum, GSA’s strategic plan, performance goals, and budget process will guide the agency’s action to implement the open government plan. The Administrator recently added an Associate Administrator, Anthony Costa, to her immediate staff to help chart the organization's future course. The Associate Administrator will work to strengthen the strategic thinking and will focus on ways for GSA’s leadership and employees to fully engage in strategic planning and implementation.Open Government Aligns with GSA’s Strategic Goals.GSA’s draft strategic goals include innovation, customer intimacy, and operational excellence._ac81ff0e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.1GSA’s draft strategic goals include innovation, customer intimacy, and operational excellence. Participation plays an important part in our role as the innovations engine for the government. Engaging the public in our processes and decisions helps us to engage in smart risk-taking and seek opportunities to drive excellence through innovation. Collaboration is also important to help us understand our customers and to help them accomplish their individual agency missions with integrity, responsibility, and creativity. GSA strives for performance excellence and seeks continuous improvement that will help us to deliver meaningful and useful solutions for our customers, industry partners, and employees. To achieve operational excellence, GSA embraces transparency to make information about our activities available to the public, participation to welcome input from the public, and collaboration to find innovative problem-solving strategies. A GSA Strategic Plan is being prepared as the administration emphasizes open government and transparency. Several options are under review, including using online engagement tools to invite input on the Plan from employees, the public, customers, and stakeholders.GSA’s Performance Measures Incorporate Open Government PrinciplesGSA’s overall performance framework for open government focuses on driving greater transparency and openness in government._ac8200da-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.2GSA’s overall performance framework for open government focuses on driving greater transparency and openness in government. We plan to drive openness principles by adopting agile technologies, processes, and expertise for public engagement. In our Strategic Plan, we have made a commitment to align our operations with Open Government principles. We plan to meet our commitment by incorporating open government principles into our high-priority performance goals and measures. GSA’s leadership will also regularly evaluate the effectiveness of management practices and policies based on guidance included in the Open Government Directive.OpennessGSA’s Plans to Increase Openness._ac820292-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3This section highlights some of GSA’s open government goals during the next 1-3 years. Our open government plan will evolve to include our goals in the areas of transparency, participation and collaboration in our core mission areas. Open government principles are not new to GSA. We have played a vital role in implementing these principles with governmentwide policies and initiatives, and by establishing collaborative platforms and tools across the government. GSA’s Open Government Plan is a blueprint for implementing the principles of open government. GSA’s draft Mission, Vision, Strategic and Performance Goals are shown in Appendix 2. This Open Government Plan includes examples of our programs, initiatives and mission-driven activities that achieve the Administration’s open government goals.Flagship InitiativesOur flagship initiatives frame GSA’s current and future open government activities._ac820454-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3.1Included in Section 8 of this Plan, our flagship initiatives frame GSA’s current and future open government activities. The goals of our flagship initiatives are reflected in Appendix 5. Future updates to the Plan will also monitor the progress and implementation of these initiatives.High Priority Performance Goals_ac82063e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3.2The following are performance milestones for GSA’s high-priority open government performance goals.Social Media ReadinessCreate three widely adopted social media readiness assessments tools piloted in at least three federal agencies by April 15, 2010._ac82083c-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3.2.1Public DialoguesAssist in conducting six high-value public dialogues with federal agencies by Sept. 30, 2010._ac820a26-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3.2.2Federal AgenciesPublic InteractionsReach or surpass 136 million public “touch points” (public interactions) through Internet, phone, print, and social media channels by Sept. 30, 2010._ac820c56-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3.2.3Center of ExcellenceCreate a center of excellence in social media by June 15, 2010._ac820e72-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3.2.4Public Engagement EducationEducate 1,000 government employees on public engagement methods by Sept. 30, 2010._ac8210c0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a3.2.3.2.5Government EmployeesGSA will educate using tools in forums, classes, and webinars that are rated "highly successful" by participants and directly linked to agency capability building and successful engagement outcomes.OPEN GOVERNMENT ENGAGEMENT DIALOGUE_ac8212fa-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a4GSA’s Online ConversationMaintain an online collaboration tool at www.opengsa.ideascale.com, where employees and the public had a conversation about open government at GSA._ac821520-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a4.1EmployeesThe PublicOther Federal AgenciesFrom Feb. 6 to March 19, 2010, GSA maintained an online collaboration tool at www.opengsa.ideascale.com, where employees and the public had a conversation about open government at GSA. The tool was designed to collect public input on four main topics: 1. Transparency; 2. Participation; 3. Collaboration; and 4. Innovation. Registered members were able to share ideas, comment on existing ideas, and vote on ideas. At the end of the six weeks, 74 ideas were posted by 52 people. The 256 registered users submitted 132 comments and cast 446 votes. The ideas and comments were presented as posted, with no edits or changes by GSA. GSA reviewed these ideas during creation of this plan. Twenty-two other federal agencies participated in this online conversation. All moderators throughout the government met weekly to discuss problems and best practices in implementing this online engagement tool to engage with the public on open government. Throughout the six weeks, GSA made changes to the tool in response to feedback from these meetings and comments posted by users.Ideas Chosen for ImplementationSend ideas to GSA’s service and staff offices with the request that they act immediately to implement the idea or explain why that would not be feasible._ac821b9c-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a4.2GSA Service OfficesGSA Staff OfficesFrom Feb. 6 to March 19, 2010, GSA conducted an online discussion where federal employees and the public had a conversation about open government at GSA. The goal of this dialogue was to collect information on three main topics: 1. public input into the creation of this Open Government Plan; 2. proposed data sets to be published by GSA; and 3. data that should be on a Web site. Many ideas and comments focused on broad, theoretical items however, 11 ideas were sent to GSA’s service and staff offices with the request that they act immediately to implement the idea or explain why that would not be feasible. The 11 ideas are categorized here and are explained more fully in the Report on GSA Citizen Engagement Public Dialogue. 1. Vacancy Rate of Federal Buildings 2. Accountability for Primes/Large Businesses Partnering with Small 3. GSA Schedules—Post how-to’s and data on how long it takes 4. Linking 5. Make eBuy solicitations available to all vendors for perusal 6. Reapplying for contract 7. Better GSA Advantage Search Engine 8. NAICS Codes and GSA Schedules 9. Sharing of Contracting Information across all Regions 10. MyGov.gov: Let Each Citizen Decide What’s Important 11. GSA should add more records to data.govGSA’s Open Webpage Moderation ProcessMonitor the site, categorize comments, forward on-topic ideas to the appropriate program offices, and respond to relevant ideas._ac821ec6-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a4.3GSA moderators monitored the site and categorized comments received from the public as on-topic, off-topic, or in violation of the participation terms. On-topic ideas were forwarded to the appropriate program offices, and off-topic ideas were moved to an off-topic section of the site. Program offices responded to relevant ideas. Visit http://www.usa.gov/webcontent/open/data_reports.shtml or https://opengsa.ideascale.com/a/ideafactoryStats.do to view a report of the complete analysis and results. GSA has also used Facebook and its home page (www.gsa.gov) to promote the public dialogue. GSA’s engagement process is included as Appendix 4.GSA’s Public Dialogue ResultsArchive the ideas gathered during the open government engagement time period for all to see and continue using the open government public engagement tool throughout GSA to gather public input._ac82215a-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a4.4Of the 446 votes cast, 24 were for one idea about transparency. The original idea suggested that GSA “should make it safe for federal workers to speak.” The commenter noted that agencies must create a safe environment so that the federal employees may point out inefficiencies and suggest improvements in the workplace. Table 1 shows the five most popular ideas submitted on the opengsa.ideascale.com. The ideas gathered during the open government engagement time period will be frozen and archived for all to see. GSA plans to continue using the open government public engagement tool throughout GSA to gather public input. The Open Government Public Engagement Report is posted on the gsa.gov/open Web page (gsa.gov/open). Figure 3 shows the status of ideas submitted during the public dialogue open period.TRANSPARENCY_ac8223c6-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5GSA plays a central role as the provider of goods and services to federal agencies and has many opportunities and incentives to disseminate information to industry and government partners. As one of the first agencies to use the Internet for mission functions, we launched GSA Advantage!, more than 12 years ago to provide the public with information on contracts and pricing. We also launched FirstGov.gov (now USA.gov) in September of 2000 to facilitate public access to federal information. In this section we provide information about GSA’s: * Strategic Action Plan for Transparency; * Methods for Informing the Public about Our Business; * Information Policies; * Governmentwide Leadership and Support of Transparency Initiatives; * Compliance with Transparency Initiatives; and * Mission Operations Supporting Transparency.Strategic Action Plan for TransparencyDelineate our data management governance, the process for collecting information, and the timing and content of information that will be published on Data.gov._ac822646-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.1Office of the Chief Information OfficerGSA’s Office of the Chief Information Officer oversees the Open Government Strategic Action Plan for Transparency. The plan delineates our data management governance, the process for collecting information, and the timing and content of information that will be published on Data.gov. Working with the Senior Accountable Official for quality of federal spending information, our information and data quality policies and guidance will evolve to ensure alignment to the Open Government Data Quality Framework. The Strategic Action Plan for Transparency is included as Appendix 3.Methods for Informing the Public about Our BusinessUse a wide variety of communications techniques and channels to inform the American public, customers, employees, and other stakeholders about the agency, ou products and services, our initiatives, and the work underway by our 12,000 employees nationwide._ac8228d0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.2American PublicCustomersEmployeesThe U.S. General Services Administration uses a wide variety of communications techniques and channels to inform the American public, customers, employees, and other stakeholders about the agency, its products and services, its initiatives, and the work underway by its 12,000 employees nationwide. In nearly all communications with the public, GSA incorporates a multi-channel strategy, integrating traditional news media, Web 2.0 tools, and new media to reach audiences, gather feedback, and create dialogues. Key Communications Strategies for Open Government: * Use multiple channels – traditional media, Web 2.0, and new media – to communicate news and messages on a frequent and consistent basis. * Gather feedback from audiences and encourage dialogue. * Keep all information fresh, updated and newsworthy. * Incorporate open government messages in all GSA communications. * Create a culture of transparency, participation, and collaboration with employees and other internal audiences. Key Activities to Promote Open Government: * Find and feature success stories on a frequent and consistent basis, where publication of high-value data sets led to creation of product / service that benefits citizens. * Have leadership highlight benefits of open government in speeches and public interactions * Feature open government stories and accomplishments on GSA Web pages. * Use new media to drive stakeholders to open government Web pages. * Issue news announcements through multiple channels explaining results/perspectives from open government activities. * Pitch success stories to media, offer interviews with subject experts. GSA’s Office of Communications and Marketing is responsible for providing the tools and personnel required to publicize and support GSA’s open government efforts. The office is committed to the principles and practices of open government, and will take a leadership role in communicating these activities to the American public. Catalogs, Publications, Newsletters, and Email Notifications. Catalogs and Publications. GSA publishes a wealth of information for government agencies, employees, vendors and citizens. Learn how to request GSA catalogs and publications. Newsletters. GSA’s print and electronic newsletters contain information about business, policy and Regions. List of GSA Newsletters. Email Notifications. GSA offers a variety of opportunities for the public sign up for email notifications to receive alerts and information. List of Email Sign-ups. GSA’s Open Government Webpage. GSA’s open government Web page provides information about the agency’s current and ongoing initiatives and invites the public to share ideas. The page is updated regularly with information about new data sets, and other new Open Government activities. Figure 3 highlights the features of the www.gsa.gov/open Web page.Information Policies_ac822b78-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3Congressional RequestsRespond to inquiries quickly and perform a variety of tasks that include preparing briefings for congressional hearings and handling all phone calls emails and written correspondence._ac822e70-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3.1GSA’s congressional liaisons respond to inquiries quickly and perform a variety of tasks that include preparing briefings for congressional hearings and handling all phone calls emails and written correspondence. For more information, visit Congressional Requests.Data QualityExame our policies and procedures and incorporate appropriate updates to ensure that the information GSA shares with the public is trustworthy and of value and consistent with the requirements of the Open Government Directive Data Quality Framework._ac8231a4-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3.2GSA has a wide range of existing guidance that addresses the quality of information and ways to ensure that it is available for timely, transparent, and accessible public use. GSA is examining its policies and procedures and is incorporating appropriate updates to ensure that the information GSA shares with the public is trustworthy and of value and consistent with the requirements of the Open Government Directive Data Quality Framework. When completed, GSA will post the policy on our website.Declassification_ac8234ec-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3.3GSA obtains copies of classified National Security Information (NSI) documents from other Federal agencies or departments to complete its mission. GSA is only authorized to destroy classified documents or return them to the original creators for declassification. For more information, visit Declassification.Freedom of Information ActRespond to FOIA requests within 20 working days and minimize backlog._ac82385c-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3.4GSA responds to FOIA requests within 20 working days and has a procedure in place to minimize backlog. GSA’s staffing, processes, and system for handling FOIA requests ensure that all responsive, non-exempt information is provided to the requester. GSA also strives to make discretionary releases of information that could be withheld. Staff members assess inquiries and coordinate with others in the agency to develop timely and thorough responses. In FY 2009, GSA reported 1306 full grants and 168 partial grants. The majority of denied requests were for contract information. GSA’s backlog to date this year is 0. If a request becomes untimely, GSA contacts the requestor and completes the request in the shortest possible timeframe. GSA’s Office of General Counsel counsels clients looking for ways to make government more transparent, participatory, and collaborative. GSA’s attorneys are actively engaged with the open government working group and work with clients like the FOIA Office to discover new ways to proactively make information available to the public. GSA’s attorneys also work with clients to satisfy security, privacy and other concerns. For more information about GSA’s FOIA program, visit the FOIA Open Government Webpage and visit GSA’s FOIA Reading Room to view the FOIA Chief Information Officer Report.PrivacyPost our privacy policy on the GSA website and explain the agency’s privacy policies and practices as they apply to GSA employees, contractors, and clients._ac823b90-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3.5GSA EmployeesGSA ContractorsGSA ClientsGSA’s privacy policy is posted on the GSA website and explains the agency’s privacy policies and practices as they apply to GSA employees, contractors, and clients. For more information, visit Privacy.Records ManagementMeet records management requirements by ensuring that our employees follow the agency’s internal Record Management Handbook, the GSA Disposition Manual._ac823eba-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3.6GSA EmployeesGSA meets records management requirements by ensuring that its employees follow the agency’s internal Record Management Handbook, the GSA Disposition Manual. GSA’s offices also develop and maintain individual records maintenance plans and conduct annual reviews to ensure that the plans are current and relevant. For more information, visit RecordsManagement.Accessibility for Persons with DisabilitiesMeet the statutory requirements of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act._ac8241d0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.3.7Persons with DisabilitiesGSA is responsible for meeting the statutory requirements of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. The Section 508 law requires that federal agencies' electronic and information technology is accessible to persons with disabilities. GSA establishes and supports a governmentwide network of over 150 agency Section 508 coordinators, provides in-person and on-line training, and creates and manages on-line resources and help numbers. GSA’s Section 508 tools, training and services are also available to state and local governments. GSA maintains two websites which provide Section 508 policy guidance, tools and resources: Section508.gov and buyaccessible.gov. Both sites offer frequently asked questions (FAQs), a glossary, and training to all stakeholders, including Federal agency personnel, industry, web developers, advocacy groups and end users. For more information, visit Section 508.GSA’s Governmentwide Leadership and Support of the Administration’s Transparency InitiativesWork with the Office of Management and Budget to provide leadership and support for the transparency initiatives._ac8244f0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.4Office of Management and BudgetGSA works with the Office of Management and Budget to provide leadership and support for the following initiatives.Data.govProvide the main program support for Data.gov._ac82482e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.4.1Office of Management and BudgetEnvironmental Protection Agency’s chief information officerDepartment of the Interior’s chief information officerGSA launched Data.gov in coordination with the Office of Management and Budget on May 21, 2009. The Department of the Interior’s and the Environmental Protection Agency’s chief information officers serve as the co-leads for development and operations of Data.gov. GSA and OMB provide the main program support. Data.gov operates the Web site which serves as a public presence, and delivers data to support the government’s commitment to transparency. Data.gov also makes additional data sources available that were not freely presented to the public in the past. To learn more, visit www.Data.gov.USASpending.govMeet the requirements of the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (Transparency Act) and expand the Web site’s utility to satisfy the administration’s transparency goals._ac824b80-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.4.2Office of Management and BudgetGSA developed USAspending.gov in coordination with the Office of Management and Budget. The site was originally developed to meet the requirements of the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (Transparency Act). The Web site’s utility expanded to satisfy the administration’s transparency goals. USAspending.gov is public-friendly and provides easy access to the expenditures and payments of government funds through contracts, grants, loans, and other mechanisms. This information can be searched and sorted by payee, location, and other designations. To learn more, visit www.USAspending.gov.IT DashboardProvide details about Federal Information Technology investments._ac8250f8-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.4.3Office of Management and BudgetDeveloped as part of USAspending.gov, and in collaboration with the Office of Management and Budget, GSA established the IT Dashboard Web site to provide details about Federal Information Technology investments. The dashboard tracks almost 800 major investments worth a total of more than $38 billion. Collectively, more than 7,000 investments worth approximately $74 billion are tracked through the dashboard. To learn more, visit http://it.usaspending.gov/.RegInfo.govPublish the semiannual unified regulatory agenda and the annual regulatory plan._ac825526-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.4.4Regulatory Information Service CenterOffice of Information and Regulatory AffairsRegInfo.gov is a public Web site, operated and maintained by GSA’s Regulatory Information Service Center in cooperation with OMB’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. The Web site serves as the official site for publishing the semiannual unified regulatory agenda and the annual regulatory plan which offer the public the most comprehensive information about upcoming regulatory actions. To learn more, visit www.RegInfo.gov.Compliance with the Administration’s Transparency Initiatives_ac8258f0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.5Agencies are required to submit information about their data, spending, investments and Recovery Act activities to specific transparency initiatives. The following sections include information about GSA’s compliance with reporting requirements for each initiative.Data.govProvide extensive information on Data.gov._ac825c9c-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.5.1GSA provides extensive information on Data.gov. As the collection point for federal information, GSA has a structured review process with a checklist designed to ensure that the agency follows quality guidelines and that attention is given to potential risk areas before any data set is released. Each GSA program office is responsible for determining which data sets and tools are suitable to be posted on Data.gov. http://www.data.gov/IT DashboardCoordinate the collection of information used to update OMB’s IT Dashboard._ac8260c0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.5.2GSA coordinates the collection of information used to update OMB’s IT Dashboard. Collecting data is part of GSA’s monthly control review process, when each of our major IT investments updates their cost/schedule progress. During the quarterly control review process, GSA gathers performance results, risk management updates, security status, and related information. GSA captures the relevant information for each major IT investment using the multiagency Electronic Capital Planning and Investment Control tool. The tool ensures that the IT dashboard updates are consistent with data reported to OMB. IT dashboard submissions are controlled within GSA, and monthly data is reviewed before it is submitted. Results that might affect IT dashboard ratings are presented to the Chief Information Officer for concurrence and direction before they are posted. GSA’s IT Executive Council reviews the status of the investments regularly. http://it.usaspending.gov/Recovery.govEstablish a comprehensive internal program to review performance results; identify, mitigate, and manage risk; and maintain accountability for achieving the objectives of the Recovery Act._ac8264a8-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.5.3Recovery.gov is the government’s official website providing easy access to data related to Recovery Act spending. The site provides the public with user-friendly tools to track Recovery funds. These tools, in the form of charts, graphs, and maps, display information about Recovery projects across the nation. GSA has established a comprehensive internal program to review performance results; identify, mitigate, and manage risk; and maintain accountability for achieving the objectives of the Recovery Act. For example, GSA has established a Recovery Program Management Office and issued a Recovery Act Financial Codes Handbook, specifically developed as a reference for coding accounting and budgeting documents and records related to the Recovery Act. GSA collects, compiles, and reviews Recovery Act data and information for completeness and accuracy, and disseminates data on a weekly basis to Recovery.gov. http://www.recovery.govUSAspending.govSubmit our own data as well as data for other Federal agencies._ac82689a-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.5.4The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, also called the Transparency Act, requires a single, searchable Web site, accessible to the public for free, that includes information about federal awards. The Web site includes information about government expenditures and payments made through contracts, grants, loans and other methods. GSA reports contracts, charge card, and information technology spending information to USAspending.gov. GSA’s data is largely submitted from two sources: the Federal Procurement Data System and the SmartPay® program, both managed by GSA. In accordance with Transparency Act requirements and acquisition regulations, GSA’s organizations enter contract data into the Federal Procurement Data System periodically. The GSA SmartPay® 2 Program provides charge cards to U.S. government agencies and departments, as well as tribal governments, through master contracts that are negotiated with major national banks. GSA’s Office of Charge Card Management (OCCM) currently receives charge card data provided by the banks and submits this data to USASpending.gov each month. GSA submits its own data as well as data for other Federal agencies. Data is displayed by agency as well as by business line (purchase, travel and fleet).GSA's Mission Operations Supporting Transparency_ac826c5a-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.6Civilian Board of Contracting AppealsUse Open Government Principles to Conduct Dispute Resolution_ac827006-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.6.1GSA's Civilian Board of Contracting Appeals is a quasi-judicial tribunal whose mission is to resolve disputes arising out of contracts between government contractors and most executive agencies. The Board also makes alternative dispute resolution services available to all executive agencies for contract-related matters. In addition, the Board resolves disputes between insurance companies and the Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency involving Federal Crop Insurance Corporation actions, and disputes involving grants and contracts under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act. The Board arbitrates disputes between applicants and the Federal Emergency Management Agency involving funding for public assistance applications arising from damage by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The board also hears and decides requests for review of transportation rate determinations and claims by federal civilian employees regarding travel and relocation expenses. The Board is best able to resolve disputes inexpensively, impartially, and expeditiously by facilitating participation and collaboration by all parties involved in a case. Specifically, the Board conducts its mission using transparency by: 1. Publishing information on its Web page, http://www.cbca.gsa.gov, about its rules of procedure, decisions in cases, and alternative dispute resolution services; 2. Making the record of proceedings in a case (except for any material subject to a protective order or deemed an in camera submission) available for public inspection; 3. Making a copy of the record (except for protected or in camera submissions) publicly available by placing a request through the Office of the Clerk of the Board; and 4. Requesting comment, through publication in the Federal Register, on all substantive changes to the Board’s rules of procedure.Office of Civil Rights (OCR)Fully support transparency in all our programs._ac8273da-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.6.2Office of Civil Rights (OCR)The Office of Civil Rights (OCR) fully supports transparency in all its programs. Training and outreach are key elements used to make each program transparent and accessible to the public, and OCR seeks to leverage Internet technology to reach its constituents. In OCR's Equal Employment Opportunity Program, the public may access www.gsa.gov to view GSA’s equal employment opportunity (EEO) complaint data pursuant to the Notification and Federal Employee Antidiscrimination and Retaliation Act, also known as the No FEAR Act of 2002. The data is accessible on GSA’s Web site and with a simple click, the public can access and download extensive multiyear data. GSA's Web site also provides extensive information about OCR's other programs - the Nondiscrimination in Federally Conducted Programs and Activities Program and the Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs and Activities Program. With respect to Federally conducted programs and activities, GSA is in direct contact with the public, while Federally assisted programs and activities, concerns how GSA’s recipients of Federal financial assistance work with the public. GSA administers laws and regulations for its federally conducted programs and administers two major federal assistance programs. With respect to each program, OCR conducts extensive training efforts on civil rights matters through both in person and web-based mediums. An interactive Civil Rights compliance database is accessible to stakeholders which includes state agencies for surplus property and recipients of Federal surplus property (such as state, county and municipal governments as well as nonprofit and educational institutions). The database stores program and compliance information, provides training, and enables simple compliance with the law. For more information about GSA's civil rights programs, statutes, regulations and policies, visit OCR's online Civil Rights Library.Federal Acqusition ServiceDescribe our transparency rools and forums._ac8277b8-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a5.6.3Federal Acqusition ServiceFederal Acquistion Service: Transparency Tools and Forums * GSA Advantage! is an online shopping and ordering system that allows federal, state, and local customers to find, compare and purchase millions of products and services from thousands of approved vendors. * Federal Procurement Data System-Next Generation and USAspending.gov make government contract award data available and searchable. Acquistion requests for quotes and proposals are also posted in FedBizOpps to encourage fair and open competition. * GSAXcess, a totally Web-enabled platform, allows eligible agencies to report, search, transfer, and order excess personal property, avoiding the cost of acquiring the same or like items in new procurements. For example, the Computers for Learning program enables schools and educational nonprofit organizations to obtain excess computer equipment from federal agencies using the GSAXcess system. * FAS’ carbon footprint tool can be used by government agencies to complete their comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions inventory as required by Executive Order 13514. * GSA provides Apps.gov, an online source for cloud computing applications designed for federal agencies. Cloud computing provides information technology capabilities that are offered as a service over the Internet to multiple users. Many users share pooled IT resources, which reduces costs and results in greater computing efficiency. The federal government is focusing on security, privacy, and procurement as it moves toward cloud computing.PARTICIPATIONFoster participation by implementing programs that engage the public in our operations._ac827bdc-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6The PublicParticipation enhances policy decisions and services by welcoming the input of the American public. GSA fosters participation by implementing programs that engage the public in its operations. GSA’s efforts to increase participation extend beyond our agency, and we actively reach out to the public using tools such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to engage the public where they are. The tools and programs implemented by GSA help federal agencies engage with the public to spur more active participation in government and help agencies better meet their missions. GSA’s Office of General Counsel drafted the initial internal policy dealing with blogs. This was later updated through a collaborative effort of many GSA offices led by the Chief Information Officer (CIO). The current policy and guidance documents apply to all social media. These documents guide the use of the emerging technologies by GSA employees that make government more engaging and participatory. As a result, GSA’s use of blogs, video sharing websites, collaboration tools, and other social media are in accordance with a wide range of requirements that govern a federal agency’s conduct. These conduct requirements include Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the Federal Records Act, and the Privacy Act. GSA’s internal social media policies were the direct result of efforts by General Counsel and were among the first issued by any federal agency. These groundbreaking efforts led directly to GSA’s ability to successfully utilize a variety of social media tools and engage the public as never before. These policies have served as models for other agencies undertaking similar activities and drafting their own guidance documents. In this section we provide information about GSA’s: * Governmentwide Public Engagement Initiatives; * Employees Engaging the Public in Mission Operations; and * Mission Operations Supporting Public Participation.Federal Acquisition RegulationUpdate the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) as an ongoing process that involves pinpointing the regulations that need to be changed, revising the language of the regulation and publishing a proposed rule._ac827fec-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.1Updating the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is an ongoing process that involves pinpointing the regulations that need to be changed, revising the language of the regulation and publishing a proposed rule. The public is then invited to submit comments on the proposed rule within a limited time period. The final rule is published in the Federal register. GSA is responsible for Federal regulations covering Acquisition, Management and Travel, all of which are posted to Regulations.gov to expand collaboration during the public comment period. Involving the public in the rulemaking process is a prime example of participation at work in the federal government. http://www.gsa.gov/farFederal Advisory Committee ActAdminister the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA)._ac828442-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.1.2Committee Management SecretariatWith the expertise from advisory committee members, federal officials and the nation have access to information and advice on a broad range of issues affecting federal policies and programs. The public, in return, has an opportunity to participate actively in the federal government's decision-making process. Each federal agency that sponsors advisory committees must follow the requirements established by the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) and administrative guidelines provided by GSA’s Committee Management Secretariat. GSA has been responsible for Federal Advisory Committee Act oversight since 1977. Seeking the advice and assistance of our public has long been recognized as an effective way to engage the public. http://www.gsa.gov/facaUSA.govOperate USA.gov._ac82892e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.1.3Office of Citizen Services and CommunicationFirstGov, now USA.gov, became part of the Federal Citizen Information Center in 2002 and is operated by the Office of Citizen Services and Communication at GSA. USA.gov is the official Web portal of the federal government and had more than 126 million hits last year. The Web site gives the public free online access to federal, state, local, territorial, and tribal government information. USA.gov has a Spanish-language version, GobiernoUSA.gov. Both sites offer options for emailing or launching live Web chats. In fiscal year 2009, GSA answered 85,000 e-mails and held 20,000 Web chat sessions through USA.gov. http://www.usa.gov/Open Government Citizen Engagement ToolManage IdeaScale, a social dialogue tool used to gather public responses for various electronic forums across the federal government._ac828fe6-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.1.4GSA manages IdeaScale, a social dialogue tool used to gather public responses for various electronic forums across the federal government. Agencies were offered free training through GSA’s Web Manager University. As a result, 22 of the 24 major agencies adapted the IdeaScale tool and launched their public dialogues by the 60-day deadline. The out-of-pocket cost of this major public-facing initiative totaled about $10,000. This is significantly less than individual agencies would have spent if they had to secure the expertise and infrastructure needed to launch their own public engagement sites. The consistency in using the same tool across government provided an added benefit. GSA’s Open Government page, www.gsa.gov/open used the public engagement tool to create an online conversation where the public submitted input about the agency’s Open Government Plan. http://opengsa.ideascale.com/Better Buy Project Pilots WikiOpen a dialogue for comments on the Better Buy Project._ac82950e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.1.5National Academy of Public AdministrationAmerican Council for Technology-Industry Advisory CouncilFederal Acquisition ServiceOffice of Assisted Acquisition ServicesThe dialogue is open for comments on the Better Buy Project, a joint initiative of the National Academy of Public Administration, the American Council for Technology-Industry Advisory Council, and GSA. GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service, Office of Assisted Acquisition Services Federal Systems Integration and Management Center is piloting two acquisitions using ideas generated through the Better Buy Project. The Better Buy project is an online public dialogue that solicits advice on ways to use collaborative technology to improve federal government acquisition. During the first phase of the project, GSA sought input on a requirement to provide a data repository for Data.gov. The second phase of the BetterBuy Pilots is called "Clearpath". GSA is seeking input on the technical infrastructure for Clearpath hosting, and is developing the approach for future acquisition. This exercise is designed to test how we can use collaboration and social media to make the federal acquisition process more efficient and effective. GSA is testing this wiki, along with a new twitter account to update our status during phases of the project. http://www.betterbuyproject.org/GSA Employees Engage the Public in Mission OperationsCreate a culture and infrastructure that will engage employees and encourage public participation._ac82998c-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.2GSA EmployeesThe PublicGSA is creating a culture and infrastructure that will engage employees and encourage public participation. GSA operates a number of websites where employees can perform functions that promote transparency, seek opportunities to increase public engagement, and collaborate with others across and outside of the government. One of these sites is http://www.facebook.com/USAgov. On this page, anyone with a facebook account can become a USA.gov fan and post questions or ideas that a USA.gov representative will answer. This leads to open dialogue between federal employees and the public. Another facebook page specifically for GSA is available at http://www.facebook.com/GSA. At http://www.youtube.com/USGovernment, Federal employees can also engage with the public. GSA uses this website to offer a video contest to engage the public. The website includes information that allows anyone to learn more about the U.S. Government as a whole, or YouTube channels with information about specific agencies. These sites are available to the government because of a Terms of Service Agreement negotiated by GSA. The Terms of Service Agreements allow GSA and all federal agencies to use available public sites such as MySpace, Wikispaces, and Bing to engage both employees and the public online. A full list of the negotiated Terms of Service agreements is available at https://forum.webcontent.gov/?page=TOS_agreements. The pre-negotiated agreements, which address most of the common concerns of agencies using social media, are posted on GSA’s online cloud storefront at www.Apps.gov.Your Voice MattersLaunch “Your Voice Matters,” USA.gov’s new online forum to connect the government with the public through dialogues on important issues that affect their lives._ac829e1e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.2.1To promote a more public-centered government, GSA’s Office of Citizen Services recently launched “Your Voice Matters.” USA.gov’s new online forum will connect the government with the public through dialogues on important issues that affect their lives. Your Voice Matters asked the public to share ideas and vote about how to improve USA.gov from December 2, 2009 through January 15, 2010. The conversation revolved around five main topics: frequently accessed services; using a personal account; finding answers from the government; what you think about USA.gov and the dialog tool itself. Most of the 290 posted comments focused on USA.gov’s content, search functionality, and the look and feel of the website. http://blog.citizen.apps.gov/yourvoicematters/GSA’s Mission Operations Supporting Public Participation_ac82a2b0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.3Department of Homeland Security HeadquartersEncourages Participation with Members of Local Community._ac82a77e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.3.1Public Building Services: Department of Homeland Security Headquarters Project at St. Elizabeths Encourages Participation with Members of Local Community - The new Department of Homeland Security headquarters campus at St. Elizabeths is the largest project ever undertaken by GSA, and the largest federal construction in the Washington metro area since the Pentagon during World War II. When complete, the campus will include 4.5 million square feet of space, plus structured parking to house up o 14,000 Homeland Security employees. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act covered well over half of the cost to complete the project. The site for headquarters is located in Ward 8 of the District of Columbia, south of the Anacostia River, a neighborhood with high poverty and unemployment. GSA made extensive efforts to reach out to the Ward 8 community to ensure that residents were aware of the project and would be ready to apply for jobs and subcontracts during the construction process. Our outreach included more than 50 meetings, hearings, and training labs. Twenty-one meetings were held with the advisory neighborhood commissions that serve the area. GSA met with the campus' neighbor, the Barry Farms Resident Council, and with the Anacostia Coordinating Council and Ward 8 Business Council. Six public hearings and a town hall meeting sponsored by U.S. Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton of Washington were also held. Construction of the campus is projected to generate more than 30,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly. At peak construction of the campus, the project will require about 1,000 workers and 100 subcontractors. GSA provided five days of training for small businesses and another session on the general topic of doing business with GSA. We conducted training labs that were open to any potential subcontractor. The labs offered advice on how small firms could position themselves to do business with the federal government, both at St. Elizabeths and on other federal projects. GSA is committed to selecting small businesses. Of the first $13 million we spent at St. Elizabeths to stabilize, maintain, and provide security for the site, all of the firms selected were businesses that were at least 51 percent owned, controlled, managed, and operated on a daily basis by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged people. Another such firm was selected to demolish the warehouse site where the Coast Guard building will be located, and other such firms continue to work on site. We established a preapprenticeship training program to provide as many opportunities as possible, and we will also require the contractor to establish an apprenticeship program. The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, better known as the AFL-CIO, runs a preapprenticeship program and conducts six-week training classes to help people apply for and retain meaningful jobs. GSA’s Public Building Services Commissioner Bob Peck and Rep. Holmes Norton spoke at the first graduation ceremony for a class of 20 on Dec. 14, 2009. The contractor’s apprenticeship program is also under way. To facilitate these efforts, the contractor established an Opportunities Center on the west campus. This large facility, consisting of four double-wide trailers joined together, is used to provide information about project employment and training opportunities for individuals and companies. The trailer is staffed, and consists of an information kiosk, a conference room with capacity for 20, a computer lab, restroom, storage room, and break room. On-site contractors have access to the trailer to conduct training sessions, and government agencies can hold small business training sessions there. The AFL-CIO can also conduct its own preapprenticeship training programs.Participation Tools and ForumsHold periodic quality partnership council meetings that bring agency acquisition professionals together with customer and industry communities._ac82ac74-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a6.3.2Federal Acquisition ServiceFederal Acquisition Service: Participation Tools and Forums - * FAS acquisition offices hold periodic quality partnership council meetings that bring agency acquisition professionals together with customer and industry communities to identify issues, discuss creative ways to resolve them, and foster common understanding.COLLABORATIONWork closely with other agencies to seek innovative strategies as solutions to governmentwide challenges._ac82b192-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7As the agency charged with supporting federal agencies and their operations, GSA’s collaboration role is unique. While participation involves GSA’s work with the public, collaboration involves GSA's work with other government agencies. GSA provides superior workplaces, services, and products for all agencies at the best possible value. Because of its unique position, GSA has the opportunity to work closely with other agencies to seek innovative strategies as solutions to governmentwide challenges. These collaborative efforts help the government conserve money and resources as agencies are presented with ready-made solutions to their problems. The following provide information about GSA’s: * Governmentwide collaboration; * Collaboration across Levels of Government; * Prizes and Challenges Increasing Collaboration; and * Mission Operations Supporting Collaboration.GSA’s Governmentwide Collaboration_ac82b692-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.1Policy Change Management ModelProvide an online, interactive tool that allows agency users to view regulations and legal authority, submit feedback, and ask questions using a discussion board._ac82bb7e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.1.1Revising and developing federal real property regulations is an ongoing collaborative process that involves extensive interaction with other federal agencies. The Policy Change Management Model is an online, interactive tool that allows agency users to view regulations and legal authority, submit feedback, and ask questions using a discussion board. Subject-matter experts answer questions related to real property management and regulations. https://pcmm.gov/Interagency CouncilsCollaborate to improve processes across the government._ac82c056-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.1.2Chief Information Officers CouncilChief Acquisition Officers CouncilChief Financial Officers CouncilPresidential Management CouncilNational Association of State Chief Information OfficersNational Association of CountiesFederal Web Managers CouncilGSA has several interagency working groups that collaborate to improve processes across the government. These groups influence transportation and travel, aviation, mail, the federal real property portfolio, acquisitions, and information technology, to name a few. Groups include the Chief Information Officers Council, the Chief Acquisition Officers Council, the Chief Financial Officers Council, the Presidential Management Council, the National Association of State Chief Information Officers, and the National Association of Counties and the Federal Web Managers Council.Electronic Federal Asset Sales and GovSales.govImprove and optimize the way the federal government sells its personal and real property assets._ac82c56a-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.1.3Electronic federal asset sales, also known as eFAS, is an e-government program to improve and optimize the way the federal government sells its personal and real property assets. The eFAS program focuses on the sales phase of asset life cycle management and offers significant benefits to participating federal agencies and the public. Agencies transfer property to sales centers, and the public visits GovSales.gov to view the property available for sale. GovSales.gov is the one-stop shopping location for excess and surplus federal government property. The public accesses the Web site and browses items ranging from computers to jewelry. Before the portal was created, the government advertised its property using more than 163 federal Web sites, and the public searched the Internet, newspapers, and other sources to find government property for sale. Now, all property is displayed in one location, at www.govsales.gov.Policy Evaluation ReportCollaborate with federal agencies to develop and implement governmentwide policies._ac82ca6a-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.1.4GSA collaborates with federal agencies to develop and implement governmentwide policies. GSA develops policies to improve the federal government’s management in the areas of aircraft, mail, motor vehicles, personal property, relocation, transportation, and travel. GSA’s Center for Policy Evaluation evaluates implementation of governmentwide policy and the policy’s effectiveness at each federal agency level. GSA evaluates the adoption of best practices and innovative tools that enable federal managers to prudently manage their assets. These collaborative efforts help determine whether agencies can achieve the outcomes intended by these policies. The results of the governmentwide policy review are published in the Center for Policy Evaluation's governmentwide report, which is available at www.gsa.gov/cpe.Integrated Search CapabilityPartner with Search.USA.gov to optimize the Data.gov website._ac82cf92-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.1.5GSA’s Data.gov has GSA offers government search free to all agencies. Data.gov offers, for example, three searchable catalogs, a “Raw” Data Catalog, a Tool Catalog and a Geodata Catalog. Users can now search across all three Data.gov catalogs to quickly find relevant results.GSA’s Collaboration across Levels of Government_ac82d4e2-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.2Building Services Collaborates Across State and Local GovernmentsCollaborate with state and local governments._ac82da28-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.2.1Building ServicesState GovernmentsLocal GovernmentsGSA’s Public Building Services collaborates with state and local governments to execute its work. For example, GSA was tasked with building a U.S. Courthouse in Greenville, S.C., and collaborated with the city of Greenville to identify potential building issues. GSA also conducted a meeting and involved the public in the decision-making process. GSA similarly collaborated with the city of Miramar, town of Davie, and Broward County when commissioned to build a federal building in south Florida. When developing a soil risk assessment around a U.S. Courthouse in Mobile, Ala., GSA collaborated with the state to gain approval of its risk assessment. That approval also allowed GSA to further address groundwater contamination using risk assessment.Communications Office Collaborates with State and Local GovernmentsMaintain a close working relationship with state and local organizations._ac82df50-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.2.2Communications OfficeNational Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO)National Association for State Procurement Officials (NASPO)National Association for State Budgeting Officials (NASBO)Web Manager UniversityGSA’s Office of Communication and Citizen Services and Communications maintains a close working relationship with state and local organizations. GSA exchanges best practices in government procurement, stimulus spending, social media, and IT leadership with state and local governments. GSA serves as a conduit to state associations such as, the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO), the National Association for State Procurement Officials (NASPO), and the National Association for State Budgeting Officials (NASBO). GSA serves as the liaison with the states for the Federal Acquisition Services state and local working group. GSA also channels news about state and local use of GSA contracts. GSA’s collaborations across levels of government also include: * Working with NASCIO to inform their members of important federal programs, such as the federal Terms of Service for social media; compliance with the Recovery Act; the federal cloud computing initiative; and federal use of virtual environments. * Conducting bi-monthly webinars for OMB officials, federal CIOs, and state and local government representatives to discuss policies and programs. * Supporting a community of web content managers for states, the largest 100 cities, and others, by offering bi-monthly webinars about how to introduce them to GSA’s web manager support, e.g., USA.gov, USASearch, GobiernoUSA.gov, www.webcontent.gov, Web Manager University, and social media.GSA’s Prizes and Challenges Increase Collaboration_ac82e6da-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.3Video CompetitionOffer a $2,500 prize to the person who submits the most creative video showing how the award-winning Web site has made life easier._ac82ed2e-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.3.1USA.govUSA.gov offered a $2,500 prize to the person who submits the most creative video showing how the award-winning Web site has made life easier. Through April 2, the public could upload 30- to 90-second videos to USA.gov. The winning video will be one that shows the most creative, entertaining, or inspiring video. The videos will be showcased on YouTube for everyone to see. The contest is part of GSA’s effort to have a more public-centered government that is transparent, participatory, and collaborative. http://www.usa.gov/contest/rules.shtmlChallenges and Prizes to Promote Open GovernmentCollaborate with others in the challenge grant community and directly supported the development of Office of Management and Budget guidance on the use of challenges and prizes to promote open government._ac82f2a6-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.3.2Office of Management and BudgetAgencies are encouraged to use challenges and prizes to promote open government. The proposed platform infrastructure will serve as a tool for agencies to submit challenges and find challenge opportunities. GSA collaborated with others in the challenge grant community and directly supported the development of Office of Management and Budget guidance on the use of challenges and prizes to promote open government.GSA’s Mission Operations Supporting Collaboration_ac82f832-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.4Employee Collaboration Results in Successful ImplementationSecure a new temporary home for the Naval Air Systems Command._ac82fdfa-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.4.1Federal Acquisition ServicePublic Building ServicesNaval Air Systems CommandGSA’s employees from the Federal Acquisition Service and the Public Building Services in the Northeast and Caribbean, Mid-Atlantic, and Rocky Mountain regions helped to secure a new temporary home for the Naval Air Systems Command. The Lakehurst, N.J. facility project contract provides the command with a facility to accommodate personnel growth until a permanent facility is completed. The facility will eventually house 120 people and is expected to be completed this spring. GSA’s Mid-Atlantic PBS is serving as the contracting representative for the project, and the Northeast and Caribbean Region's FAS Customer Accounts is the research contact. As of early March, 28 trailers have been delivered, and the contractor is working on site development. This award would not have been possible without the collaboration of all three regions and has already led to at least six additional business opportunities for GSA.Office of Performance Improvement Collaborates to Manage Deployment of Lean Six SigmaDeploy a continuous process improvement capability based on the Lean Six Sigma methodology that incorporates open government principles._ac830390-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.4.2Office of PerformanceGSA’s Office of Performance Improvement deploys a continuous process improvement capability based on the Lean Six Sigma methodology that incorporates open government principles. The Lean Six Sigma program provides a strategic approach that institutionalizes a culture of continuous process improvement focused on increased reliability, improved quality, cycle time reduction, cost savings, and optimized productivity. GSA’s in-house continuous process improvement and Lean Six Sigma experts promote and participate in governmentwide knowledge-sharing across the performance improvement community. In response to GSA’s program featured in an article in Government Executive magazine, the Office of Performance Improvement provided briefings to senior executives from the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Department of Energy, and the National Science Foundation. The briefing included information on the opportunities and applications of Lean Six Sigma, and lessons learned in launching a new continuous process improvement program. GSA offered Lean Six Sigma training to other government agencies at no cost. The Office of Management and Budget is leading two interagency subgroups of the Performance Improvement Council that are examining the possible governmentwide use of continuous process improvement tools in hiring reform and performance management. GSA participates in these subgroups alongside other agencies, including the U.S. Departments of the Treasury, Defense, Homeland Security, and Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. GSA will soon be equipped to partner and collaborate on improvement initiatives with its customer agencies, many of whom are also deploying a continuous process improvement/Lean Six Sigma capability. These collaborations will improve processes in areas where there are multiagency roles and shared interests. To further promote the expansion and use of continuous process improvement and Lean Six Sigma methods, while reducing government costs, the Office of Performance Improvement is partnering with GSA’s FAS to develop a blanket purchase agreement that can be used by federal agencies. The agreement will expedite access to vendors for a wide range of continuous process improvement support, including training, deployment, risk management, and related systems and software. GSA’s Lean Six Sigma projects rely on active involvement by agency employees. More than 200 employees have been trained in Lean Six Sigma methodology across GSA’s services, staff offices, and regions. To learn more about GSA’s Lean Six Sigma program, visit Lean Six Sigma.Collaboration Tools and Forums_ac830944-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.4.3Federal Acquisition ServiceSatellite Communcation ServicesProvide a platform for government agencies to access commercial satellite communications services._ac830f16-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.4.3.1Defense Information Systems AgencyIn collaboration with the Defense Information Systems Agency, FAS is providing a single platform for government agencies to access commercial satellite communications services such as essential, secure communications to disaster recovery teams, domestic emergency responders, and the war fighter, as well as services used to support distance learning and remote access to global government networks.Federal Strategic Sourcing InitiativesDrive cooperation and collaboration among federal agencies._ac8314f2-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a7.4.3.2Agencies work together and use business intelligence to analyze spending data and make recommendations to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of acquisitions. The sharing of acquisition resources results in increased savings and value.FLAGSHIP INITIATIVESSelect four flagship initiatives._ac831ac4-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a8On the water, a flagship is the largest, fastest, leading ship. These same attributes apply to GSA’s flagship initiatives. The Office of Management and Budget directed GSA to describe at least one specific new transparency, participation, or collaboration initiative being implemented or planned — a flagship initiative. GSA selected four flagship initiatives to highlight in this section: * Terms of service agreements; * Open government public engagement tool; * Challenges and prizes platform; and * Public engagement platform. GSA’s Current and Future Open Government Activities within 1-3 Years. Each of these flagship initiatives can impact every federal government agency in keeping with GSA’s mission to support federal agencies in conducting their missions. Both the Terms of Service Agreements negotiated by GSA and the Open Government Public Engagement Tool enable federal agencies to be more open and communicative with the public. The Challenges and Prizes Platform will further enable agencies to encourage public involvement. The Citizen Engagement Platform focuses on agencies’ ability to use social media tools that are accessible to persons with disabilities. Through these efforts, GSA supports the administration’s goal of creating a more open government and fosters openness for the entire federal government. Appendix 5 contains the high-level milestones and timelines depicting where GSA plans to be over the next 1-3 years and Appendix 6 maps the alignment of the Flagship Initiatives to GSA’s strategic and high-priority goals.Terms of Service AgreementsNegotiate with social media providers to have providers amend their standard terms and conditions to respect the unique status and needs of the federal government._ac8320aa-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a8.1Office of Citizen Services and CommunicationWhite House Counsel’s OfficeYouTubeFacebookFlickrUserVoiceThe White House Open Government Directive specifically calls for federal agencies to use emerging technologies to “open new forms of communication between a government and the people.” Federal agencies have been trying for years to overcome barriers that kept agencies from using the new forms of communication that were readily available to individuals and commercial interests. These impediments barred agencies from using, among other things, social media tools for mission-related purposes, such as public outreach, public engagement, personnel recruitment, training, and idea-generation. Another barrier was the terms of service that providers of free social media require users to accept before accessing their service. Their no-cost tools for social networking, blogging, and dialoguing would give the government the potential to reach and to hear from a nearly unlimited audience. But the small print in many of the providers’ terms of use contains provisions that federal agencies cannot, by law, agree to. Issues with terms of service were an obstacle to agencies who wanted to expand their ability to engage with the public. To lift this roadblock, a coalition of federal Web managers and others from across government, led by the GSA Office of Citizen Services and Communication, enlisted the help of enthusiastic attorneys in their agencies and the White House Counsel’s Office. Collaborating on language that would accommodate both operational and legal requirements, the coalition entered negotiations with social media providers. The objective was to have providers amend their standard terms and conditions to respect the unique status and needs of the federal government — to agree on standard language that all agencies could use with minimal tweaking to meet their own needs. By February 2009, an agreement with YouTube was finalized. The U.S. Government YouTube Channel was launched, and agencies immediately began posting their videos on the site. Since then, agencies have posted videos on 86 government channels on YouTube, and millions of YouTube viewers can access official videos from across government. Within its first 120 days, the U.S. Government YouTube Channel, http://www.youtube.com/USGovernment, received 176,000 views from more than 13,000 subscribers and continues to grow at a rate of 7 percent per month. The coalition moved on to other popular social media providers. Agreements have been negotiated with 35 providers, including Facebook, Flickr, and UserVoice. The agreements, which address legal terms of service concerns of agencies using social media, are posted on GSA’s online cloud storefront at www.Apps.gov. By using these published agreements, agencies will have a framework for negotiating acceptable terms that comply with their own policies for the use of social media and that meet their specific needs, expectations, and practices. The terms of service agreement with Facebook, for example, allows the GSA-led initiative USA.gov and GobiernoUSA.gov to set up pages to interact with and engage the public at http://www.facebook.com/USAgov. The initiative promotes information and services across government and helps people find answers to their questions. Without the agreement, USA.gov and GobiernoUSA.gov would not be able to participate in this popular space. Facebook has users in every country: 350 million users worldwide, with 200 million of those added in 2009. Seventy-four percent of the online population uses social networks, and three-fourths of them are on Facebook. The success of the terms of service initiative has attracted the attention of far-seeing social media providers, who want to add their products to the lineup on Apps.gov. The coalition has posted a model agreement that vendors can refer to in determining if their terms of service are compatible with federal law. It lists the points, issues, and concerns that typically arise in standard terms of service and are problematic for federal agencies, and suggests replacement language that would be acceptable to most federal agencies. Under this scalable plan, the roster of federal-compatible no-cost sources will continue to grow and be refreshed with emerging innovative offerings. Negotiating these terms of service has created a cost-effective way for all agencies to meet the requirements of the Open Government Directive. They now have free federal-friendly tools to consider for social networking, dialogs, blogging, and other means of online interaction.Open Government Public Engagement ToolOffer major federal agencies an online engagement tool to gather ideas from the public, enable others to comment on those ideas, and allow voting on the ideas._ac8326ea-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a8.2Office of Management and BudgetMajor Federal AgenciesThe PublicThe Open Government Directive required that federal agencies seek employee and public feedback in the development of their open government plans. To meet this need, the Office of Management and Budget tasked GSA with offering major federal agencies a compliant online engagement tool that could gather ideas from the public, enable others to comment on those ideas, and allow voting on the ideas so that the best ideas rise to the top for agency review. The GSA Office of Citizen Services and Communication created a Center for New Media and Citizen Engagement to help agencies throughout the federal government comply with the president’s Open Government Directive and its very aggressive timetable. The first step was to identify a tool that could be modified for use by every agency, could be put in place quickly, and would be easy to learn to use. In six weeks, GSA identified and customized a tool that all agencies could use to engage the public online. IdeaScale, one of the providers that amended its terms of service, offered a product that agencies could use to engage with the public. With a quick review of the tool’s capabilities and acceptance of the amended terms of service, GSA was able to get the tool up and running quickly. GSA performed the policy and clearance steps to meet federal regulations and requirements, configured and designed the tool for use by agencies, conducted user testing, remediated problems that limited accessibility of electronic and information technology accessible to persons with disabilities, and provided ongoing support for agencies during the online engagement. GSA’s Web Manager University offered free training for all agencies. As a result, 23 agencies and offices adapted the IdeaScale tool and launched their public dialogues by the 60-day deadline. From Feb. 6 to March 19, 2010, GSA provided the tool to 22 of 24 major federal agencies and to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to use to solicit online public feedback regarding their open government plans. This tool helped agencies meet a key milestone in the Open Government Directive, introduced many agencies to their first online engagement with the public, and built capacity and community for sustained online engagement throughout federal government. More than 1,400 ideas, 3,200 comments, and 32,000 votes from more than 6,400 users had been logged across these 23 simultaneous open government dialogues by March 19. The out-of-pocket cost of this major public-facing initiative totaled about $10,000, significantly less than individual agencies would have spent if they had had to seek out the expertise and infrastructure to stand up their own public engagement sites. The consistency of using the same approach across government was an added benefit. GSA is working to transition administration of this online engagement tool directly to agencies so that they can own and build upon this critical capability for online engagement. GSA shared all technical configuration documents, graphics files, policy documents, test results, outreach tools, and engagement techniques online at http://www.usa.gov/webcontent/open.shtml. GSA also established a community of practice in government online engagements by convening and leading an interagency community of more than 130 moderators and new media points of contact. This effort also nurtured agency-led innovations such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s real-time OpenGov Tracker at http://www.opengovtracker.com/ and the Small Business Administration’s public comment process workflow, http://www.usa.gov/webcontent/open/Moderation_Workflow_Diagram.pptx. GSA will post and regularly update data sets with the full text of ideas and comments, as well as the number of votes and user, for each agency on WebContent.gov. http://www.usa.gov/webcontent/open/data_reports.shtml. These data sets will ultimately be made available on Data.gov. Twenty-three agencies now have the capability to use this and other engagement tools to continue dialogs with the public. Agencies can use these tools to implement their open government plans and engrain a culture of openness throughout their agencies.Challenges and Prizes PlatformProvide a Web-based platform to manage contests and prizes._ac832d16-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a8.3OMBIn a March 8, 2010 Memorandum to heads of agencies, OMB laid out a legal framework for federal agencies to use challenges, prizes, and other strategies backed by incentives to find innovative or cost-effective solutions to improving open government. GSA plans to provide a Web-based platform to manage contests and prizes. This Web-based platform will allow the federal government to post problems and invite users to suggest, discuss, and judge solutions. GSA is working with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Office of Management and Budget to equip agencies to develop and present challenges. Agencies will be encouraged to use challenges and prizes to solicit ideas about new approaches to open government, innovation, and other administration priorities. GSA will also develop vehicles to make it easier for agencies access to the necessary products and services to run innovation challenges. Agencies may need technical assistance when structuring and conducting contests, and the products and services will help them to gain the maximum benefit from the marketplace as they identify and pursue contest initiatives. Engaging the public will help to further the policy objectives of the federal government. GSA will also provide governmentwide services to share innovation challenge best practices and will help agencies develop guidelines for issuing challenges.Citizen Engagement PlatformMake it easier for agencies to use social media tools that are compatible with federal laws and policies._ac83339c-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a8.4Center for New Media and Citizen EngagementThe citizen engagement platform will make it easier for agencies to use social media tools that are compatible with federal laws and policies, including tools that are accessible to persons with disabilities. In a secure government space, GSA’s Center for New Media and Citizen Engagement is building a fully functioning software as a service storefront. The software will allow government agencies to easily deploy tools such as blogs, wikis, and forums, and a URL shortener to help engage with the public in a simple, cost-effective way. The tools are modeled after industry-standard best practices for delivery similar to those used by Google and GoDaddy. The storefront is available within GSA but will be expanded to all agencies this spring. GSA piloted the blog tool for the "Your Voice Matters" dialogue to learn more about what the public wants and expects from USA.gov. http://blog.citizen.apps.gov/yourvoicematters.CROSS-AGENCY TRANSFERABILITYShare GSA’s efforts in the areas of transparency, participation, collaboration, and flagship initiatives across government to avoid duplication and to improve the value and outcome of efforts._ac833a4a-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a9GSA’s efforts in the areas of transparency, participation, collaboration, and flagship initiatives are shared across government to avoid duplication and to improve the value and outcome of efforts. This is called cross-agency transferability. To reach this goal, GSA has manifested cross-agency transferability in the following ways.Apps.govProvide an online source for cloud computing applications designed for federal agencies._ac834332-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a9.1Federal AgenciesGSA provides Apps.gov, an online source for cloud computing applications designed for federal agencies. Cloud computing provides information technology capabilities that are offered as a service over the Internet to multiple users. Many users share pooled IT resources, which reduces costs and results in greater computing efficiency. The federal government is focusing on security, privacy, and procurement as it moves toward cloud computing.Government Contact Center CouncilProvide a leadership forum for the federal government’s contact centers._ac834af8-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a9.2Government Contact Center Council (G3C)Government Contact CentersThe Government Contact Center Council, also known as the G3C provides a leadership forum for the federal government’s contact centers. The council ensures that help is available to resolve issues ranging performance measurement and customer satisfaction to the availability of emergency response resources. It provides members with formal training opportunities and invites experts to speak at meetings. Council members meet monthly to share best practices, and learn about new and important topics in the management of multichannel contact centers.USA ContactProvide the public with ready access to government information and services._ac8351f6-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a9.3The PublicUSA Contact provides the public with ready access to government information and services. USA Contact helps agencies ensure timely, consistent, and accurate responses to inquiries from the public. Federal agencies use USA Contact to gain easy access to a broad range of contact service centers. As of spring 2010, The Office of Citizen Services had awarded 16 contracts through FirstContact and nine through USA Contact.Search.USA.govOffer a free search index service to government agencies._ac8358d6-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a9.4GSA’s Search.USA.gov offers a free search index service to government agencies through the USA.gov Search Services Affiliates Program. The program allows federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial Web sites to provide simplified and structured search results to the public. The USA.gov Search Services Program handles nearly 4 million search queries a month and offers many features, including related searches, and government images. The USA.gov Search Services Affiliates Program allows Web managers to configure their own Web sites based on the USA.gov search platform. Agencies can enable or disable the search features to best fit the needs of their Web site. The affiliate program has many benefits, including: * Zero infrastructure cost for service and upgrades; * Use of industry-leading search technology and best practices; * Easy online management and customizable look and feel; * Access to trusted documents from federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments; * Advanced features such as boosting, related searches, Web analytics search tools; and * Collaboration with Data.gov. The USA.Gov Search Services team is assisting the Data.gov team in providing an automatic suggestion feature, and the ability to index and display timely content immediately. Best practices are being implemented to ensure search engine optimization, which will give users access to the numerous government data sources.Interagency Resources Management Conference.Sponsor an annual conference to gather government policy and management experts together to inform senior managers about initiatives critical to their leadership positions._ac835fa2-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a9.5Government Policy ExpertsGovernment Management ExpertsThe Interagency Resources Management Conference, also called IRMCO, is an annual conference sponsored by GSA to help fulfill the agency's educational responsibility. It gathers government policy and management experts together to inform senior managers about initiatives critical to their leadership positions. IRMCO is developed in conjunction with members of policymaking organizations such as the Office of Management and Budget, as well as the Chief Information Officers, Chief Financial Officers, Chief Acquisition Officers, and Chief Human Capital Officers councils. Some sessions at IRMCO also offer program management continuous learning credits for updating critical skills.Web Manager UniversityProvide government employees and contractors with world-class training in website management._ac8366a0-60f5-11df-bc93-ea647a64ea2a9.6Government EmployeesGovernment ContractorsGSA's Web Manager University provides government employees and contractors with world-class training in website management. Web Manager University now offers classes to address open government and public engagement. Since the program started, we have offered nearly 200 classes and attracted over 15,000 attendees from over 100 federal, state, and local agencies. By leveraging its governmentwide scope, the program is able to attract leading experts in web, new media, and open government. Attendees learn important skills and knowledge, including how to: develop a social media and open government strategy, create blogs and other tools to engage with the public, use social networking sites to build communities, develop and share videos to reach a wider audience, and use plain language to foster greater transparency. The program includes in-person training, live webinars, and an annual conference In anticipation of the Open Government Directive, GSA expanded Web Manager University in 2009 to include a series of "New Media Talks," to help government agencies learn about the latest tools and strategies for implementing social media and other engagement activities. Since March 2009, we have hosted 25 free sessions with some of the world's top thought leaders in new media and open government, attracting over 4,000 participants from across government. Many of these sessions have been recorded and are publicly available for download and can easily be shared across government, making it easier for government employees to replicate open government best practices. Web Manager University also provided important training to support the implementation of the governmentwide online dialog tool, launched on February 6, 2010. The program trained moderators from 24 agencies on how to maintain the IdeaScale dialog tool, manage comments, and create a meaningful dialog with the public. GSA will continue to train agencies in citizen engagement. Web Manager University is a prime example of cross-agency transferability. It avoids duplication across government by minimizing multiple agencies offering the same training; creates a high quality experience with world-class faculty since speakers know they will reach a diverse, cross-agency audience; and reduces costs by centralizing the management of the training program and procuring one training contract that benefits many agencies. The program adds value since many agencies do not have the training funds or resources to maintain this kind of high caliber training program on their own. Additionally, we are able to offer classes tailored to a government audience at a low-cost. Most importantly, the program connects government staff with innovators inside and outside of government, and encourages people to share their experiences and learn from each other as they implement the goals of the Open Government Directive.2010-04-072012-09-302010-05-14http://www.gsa.gov/graphics/admin/GSAOpenGov20100407.pdfOwenAmburOwen.Ambur@verizon.net