Survey reveals necessity of interagency cooperation

According to a recent survey, 65% of federal managers say budget pressures will increase the importance of interagency collaboration.  The survey, conducted by Government Business Council: Industry Insights and Booz Allen Hamilton, revisited the idea of “smart power” — the integrated application of defense, diplomacy, and development — to meet the most challenging national security issues of today.

However, the survey also revealed that though interagency collaboration is viewed as essential, there are still barriers to its application and many are skeptical as to whether interagency collaboration will lead to overall mission success.  Such challenges include a lack of communication, lack of clear interagency policy, and interagency politics.

The survey also found that many federal agencies have shared mission priorities and goals, and respondents believe that agencies beyond the Department of Defense, Department of State, and USAID have the potential to help address geopolitical challenges.  Respondents also cited humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, stabilization and reconstruction, and conflict prevention as target areas of smart power and interagency cooperation.

For more information about the survey by Government Business Council: Industry Insights and Booz Allen Hamilton, please follow the link below.
“Interagency Collaboration Necessary in Budget Environment, Shows Survey,” Business Wire
Joining Forces: Interagency Collaboration and “Smart Power,” A Candid Survey of Federal Employees