Dq Quester

How does, or could, your company use computers to improve operations?

The IRS is heavily dependent on complex computer systems, some of which were designed almost forty years ago. I work on a system called IRS (the Integrated Data Retrieval System.) Every morning at the start of my shift, I log on to windows and then to IDRS. This is very an important system that maintains all taxpayer records in Master Files. The Master Files are very large files that are kept in sequential order on a separate online system. When information is received from taxpayers, for example tax returns and payments, it is input into this system and then transferred to the Master File. This reduces the amount of paperwork that is kept for each individual on file. Business tax records are also kept on this master file. We have a list of command codes that download different information, If I want to view a taxpayers income or wage information, I use IRPTRL. There are many that we are required to learn the help in the researching process. Computers have also reduced the time it takes to retrieve information to assist a taxpayer with an inquiry. I cannot imagine going into a file cabinet every time a taxpayers calls to review his or her account. Computers also make it possible to immediately update an account. For example, I get a call for a business owners stating that he is no longer in business and therefore not required to file, I can immediately closed out that particular tax year based on the information on the spot. Of course, I would ask for proof and give the taxpayer time to mail it in, but meanwhile threatening IRS delinquent notices temporarily cease at the blink of an eye. This system has definitely enhanced taxpayer service. It has made it easier and faster to locate information that will help the taxpayer will tax issue the minute

what has the company done to ensure the integrity of data stored in electronic format?

Besides having the data store on a separate system,...