What investment life cycle model is used by GAO?

• A. Select-Control-Evaluate
• B. Plan-Do-Check-Act
• C. Define-Develop-Deliver
• D. Assess-Authorize-Operate

Answer: (A)

GAO uses a three-stage model for IT investment governance: Select, Control, and Evaluate. This framework centers on decision points that guide how federal agencies choose, manage, and judge IT investments.

First, the Select stage focuses on identifying investments that align with mission needs, deliver value, and justify the resources requested. It’s about making informed choices and prioritizing what to fund.

Second, the Control stage establishes governance and oversight to manage risk, monitor performance, and ensure accountability throughout the investment’s life. This stage puts in place gates, reviews, and metrics to keep the project on track and within the desired risk and cost boundaries.

Third, the Evaluate stage assesses actual outcomes and results, determining whether to continue, adjust, or terminate an investment based on demonstrated value and performance against expectations. This closing step feeds back into future planning and funding decisions.

This model is distinct from Plan-Do-Check-Act, which is a general continuous-improvement loop, Define-Develop-Deliver, which isn’t GAO’s investment framework, and Assess-Authorize-Operate, which describes security authorization and operation rather than investment lifecycle governance.