ADP Modernization: Army Plans to Improve Budget Disclosure for Its Standard Depot System
Abstract
SDS is the basic automation system used to manage Army logistics activities at supply and maintenance depots. The current system uses batch processing and makes extensive use of punch cards to enter information. Army initiated the modernization program primarily to eliminate the cumbersome punch cards in favor of the more user-responsive online data entry and validation environment. The Army plans to change to this environment by upgrading existing hardware and system software, and by redesigning some application programs. According to Army officials, modernization is primarily limited to enhancing the existing system and should not be considered a system redesign. A total redesign of SDS is not planned to be addressed until 1995, Army officials said. Army expects the improved system to be better able to meet mobilization, contingency, and peacetime commitments by 1) improving time receipt reporting through on-line verification of inputs, 2) eliminating hardcopies, by instead, using on-line capabilities, 3) improving data accuracy through more timely data correction and resubmission, 4) improving response time to current users, and 5) supporting more users. SDS modernization will cost about $58.7 million and will be completed by June 1992, Army estimates. According to its cost-benefit study, SDS modernization will increase productivity and save an estimated $101.1 million through fiscal year 1995. Of the $58.7 million, the Army plans to spend about $21.9 million for new computer hardware. About $10.2 million has already been spent to buy and install new computers at seven Army depots. The remaining costs are for upgrading main memory in the newly acquired computers, and acquiring a larger computer system for the Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- AD1150536
Entities
People
- William S. Franklin
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office