The Enterprise Information Technology System program, managed by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), is a research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on modernizing and streamlining audit processes through advanced technology. The primary objective of this program is to develop and prototype a cloud-based solution that leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to address inefficiencies and errors in current audit workflows. By integrating these technologies, the program aims to enhance the accuracy, speed, and reliability of audit operations across the Department of Defense (DoD).
A key goal of the Enterprise Information Technology System is to create a reference architecture that can be used as a model for future production systems. The program is centered on designing, developing, and testing AI/ML prototypes within the DoD Azure cloud environment. These prototypes are intended to automate and optimize audit tasks that are traditionally time-consuming and prone to human error, thereby reducing delays and improving overall process efficiency.
During fiscal years 2024 and 2025, the program's objectives include refining prototype capabilities, conducting comprehensive software testing, and improving the reference architecture for broader implementation. Testing activities encompass unit, system, and user acceptance testing to ensure the developed solutions meet all required specifications and operational standards.
The program also emphasizes the deployment of these prototypes in a secure cloud environment, facilitating robust evaluation and validation before potential transition to production. The Enterprise Information Technology System budget line supports ongoing software development activities at DCAA's Fort Belvoir, Virginia location. Funding in prior years and through FY 2025 has been allocated to product development, covering the full cycle of research, development, and prototype testing, with the expectation that successful prototypes will inform future operational systems within the agency.
Justification for the program centers on the need to address persistent challenges in DoD audit processes, such as inefficiency, error rates, and delays. By adopting AI/ML and cloud-based technologies, the program seeks to provide scalable, secure, and effective solutions that can be adapted to evolving audit requirements. The use of advanced component development and prototyping ensures that only thoroughly tested and validated technologies are considered for production deployment.
The program's schedule reflects a multi-year development effort, with software development activities spanning from 2019 through the end of 2025. As the program transitions from development to operations and sustainment, funding requirements decrease, reflecting the completion of major RDT&E milestones. No additional acquisition strategies or program funding sources are identified, indicating a focused approach on internal development and evaluation within DCAA.