Strengthening Homeland Security: Reforming Planning and Resource Allocation

Publication Date: January 2008

Publisher: IBM Center for The Business of Government

Author(s): Cindy Williams

Research Area: Government

Keywords: National security; Homeland Security; Presidential transition

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This report presents findings about the organizational structure, processes, and tools that surround planning and resource allocation for homeland security in the executive branch and Congress. The author explores problems with today's arrangements and offers recommendations for consideration by the next president and the next Congress. Improving planning and resource allocation can help leaders establish control over priorities by strengthening the links between strategies and budgets. Perhaps, as Williams compellingly suggests - and most important for the federal homeland security effort - improved planning and resource allocation can help pull the policies and budgets of the individual components of homeland security into a cohesive whole.