High Performance Computing Communications New Program Direction Would Benefit From A More Focused Effort

High Performance Computing & Communications: New Program Direction Would Benefit From a More Focused Effort

High Performance Computing and Communications

The House Armed Services Committee asked the GAO (General Accounting Office) to examine the HPCC (High Performance Computing and Communications) program in terms of: (1) the effectiveness of the program's management structure in setting goals and measuring progress, and (2) how extensively private industry has been involved in the planning and execution of this program. The HPCC program aims to accelerate the research and development of high performance computers and networks and promote the use of those resources in both the federal government and the private sector. The administration is now broadening the role of the HPCC program in developing new technology in support of the NII (National Information Infrastructure), and industry participation is crucial for the creation of new products and services for the NII. The GAO recommended that the HPCC program develop a detailed technical agenda as a framework for guiding the government's investment in HPCC research. The HPCC budgets are developed without formal guidelines, and a more standardized method for spending could broaden industry support for the program. Private sector participation could be promoted by inviting industry representatives to collaborate on the development of program plans. The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology (Science Advisor) concurred with the GAO's findings and also recommended that a private sector advisory board be established. (DGM).

High Performance Computing and Communications