# GAO Urges Agencies to Track AI Outcomes

A Federal News Network commentary recommends that agencies publish a service-level scorecard for AI spending, measuring outcomes alongside workforce capacity, service performance, and quality; it is a recommendation, not an announced government policy or procurement. The case for stronger acquisition oversight is underscored by GAO data showing federal AI use cases rose from 571 in 2023 to 1,110 in 2024, while 22 major agencies had about 250,000 fewer employees in January 2026 than in December 2024. GAO has recommended policy updates at the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, General Services Administration, and Department of Veterans Affairs, making AI acquisition performance and agency readiness relevant considerations for procurement teams and contractors.

- Contractors supporting federal AI should be prepared to document measurable service outcomes, error rates, workforce and skills needs, and lessons learned from AI acquisitions.
- Procurement teams can use these measures when assessing AI proposals and performance, while distinguishing the commentary’s scorecard recommendation from any existing agency mandate.
- GAO’s recommended policy updates at DoD, DHS, GSA, and VA identify agencies where AI acquisition practices may receive particular scrutiny.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** November 05, 2026

### Government Entities
- Government Accountability Office (GAO)
- Department of Defense (DoD)
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- General Services Administration (GSA)
- Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

### Sources
- [
        Washington’s AI experiment is flying blind - Federal News Network](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/commentary/2026/11/washingtons-ai-experiment-is-flying-blind) - Federal News Network