PART 1:Implementing CPIC and Integrating It with the Budget Process

PART I includes three chapters that provide readers with a thorough understanding of the IT CPIC process overall, as well as an in-depth understanding of each of its phases. As a result of reading these chapters, agencies that have not yet implemented a CPIC process can better design and implement effective and efficient processes. Agencies that already have CPIC processes in place can use the information to compare the approaches given in this book to their own, and potentially identify opportunities to enhance and improve agency operations.

Chapter 1 provides a general overview of the underlying legislation and regulations that have precipitated widespread adoption of CPIC processes for IT resources, including the Clinger-Cohen Act, relevant OMB memoranda and circulars, and other applicable guidance. Chapter 1 also explains congressional intent: CPIC regulations are based on the desire of Congress to improve IT system deployment success rates by providing an environment in which market-based principles can be applied to the selection and management of IT investments within federal agencies.

Chapters 2 and 3 explain, in considerable detail, what the planning, selection, control, and evaluation phases of CPIC entail and how they work. These chapters contain essential information for all readers but are particularly useful for those senior managers and policy makers who are called on to participate in agency CPIC processes. Taken as a whole, they explain why IT investment management is important, how it instills discipline and accountability in agency decision-making processes, and the importance of integrating the CPIC process with the long-standing budget allocation and formulation processes.