GAO: Agencies are failing to learn AI acquisition lessons

A GAO review has found that selected agencies were not systematically collecting lessons learned from AI acquisitions — a necessary first step to share knowledge about AI acquisitions in accordance with OMB guidance.

OMB has stated that agencies should share knowledge about AI acquisitions through a web-based repository developed by the General Services Administration (GSA). However, officials at four agencies — GSA and the Departments of Defense (DOD), Homeland Security (DHS), and Veterans Affairs (VA) — told GAO they were not prepared to do so because their agency policies did not require them to collect lessons learned.

As a result, the agencies are missing opportunities to identify and apply best practices — such as contract terms related to data rights or testing requirements—or to avoid mistakes as agencies increasingly acquire AI.

Read more at Government Accountability Office