One DHS, One Enterprise, a Shared Vision

The Department of Homeland Security was formed in the wake of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, as part of a determined national effort to safeguard the United States against terrorism. The Department became the third-largest federal department, bringing together 22 different federal agencies, each with a role in this effort. Since the Department's creation, the goal is simple: one DHS, one enterprise, a shared vision, with integrated results-based operations. 

A Culture of Responsibility and Fiscal Discipline

We are implementing a series of wide-ranging efficiency initiatives that leverage the economies of scale in our Department in order to recover hundreds of millions of dollars and create a culture of responsibility and fiscal discipline.
DHS has taken significant steps to create a unified and integrated Department that will enhance our performance by focusing on:

• accountability
• efficiency
• transparency, and
• leadership development

Secretary Napolitano launched a Department-wide efficiency review to trim costs, streamline operations, eliminate duplication, and better manage resources across the Department. This effort includes more than two dozen initiatives that will increase efficiency and save taxpayers millions of dollars.

Results: Leaner, Smarter, More Responsive  

DHS is leaner, smarter, more responsive and better equipped to protect the nation as a result of the Department-wide efficiency review initiative. Over 30 DHS Efficiency Review initiatives have led to significant progress across the Department. To date, DHS has identified more than $1 billion in cost avoidances, including:

• $180 million through enterprise software licensing agreements
• $15.5 million by sharing excess IT equipment within the Department rather than buying new
• $4 million by consolidating subscriptions to professional publications and newspapers
• $6.1 million by using government office space and online tools for conferences instead of renting private facilities