Comments on Proposed Reports

Sandra Swab, NGP

March 27, 2007

Standard Reports

In the right direction Information and data used across government Ability to compare the data—lessening interpretation Better analysis of performance

Policy/business rules Government presented some proposed business rules/policy Comparison is needed to current policies in the circulars to determine

burden Need to curtail additional reporting forms Programs need to analyze the data collection forms; to eliminate

generation of additional data—Ensure programs can use the data

Federal Financial Report

Nice looking document Comments on the Form

Grants JFIMP Requirements document states: Standard data classification (definitions and formats) used to record

financial events Common processes used for processing similar kinds of

transactions Internal controls and reporting applied consistently

SF-269 is a budgetary document SF-272 Cash transaction document; report date/cumulatively

Federal Financial Report--Comments

Not clear if the proposed business rules are clear on the use of the FFR Flexibility given in OMB Circulars for use by agencies on which financial reports used,

plus indicate if information can be obtained from payment system—can use that information

Would like more clarification on the proposed use of the data agencies can prescribe for use and agreement on the data proposed

Compare to current business rules—is this flexible enough or will it be required no matter what

Draft policy and publish as “interim” so it can be tested and have agencies verify collection of data and reconciliation to their financial system—establish a test environment an agency or two and stakeholders in the “interim” notice with draft policy/business rules

Understand from the Grantee perspective can one form be used or use current forms and use the current business rules for financial reporting

Streamlining does not always mean you have to do something—could mean reemphasizing current practices/policies