6. DESCRIBE THE MEANS TO BE USED TO VERIFY AND VALIDATE PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND RESULTS
Wherever possible, the Postal Service uses measurement systems and data provided by independent systems operated by Postal Service contractors. Detailed descriptions will be provided in the 2004 Annual Performance Plan to be published in September 2003. Postal systems and data are reviewed by senior postal management and the Board of Governors as part of the annual planning and review cycle of the Postal Service. Financial Statement data is independently audited by certified public accountants reporting to the Board of Governors.

Financial and operating data are monitored through extensive public evidentiary proceedings of the Postal Rate Commission. Postal policies, procedures, and processes are subject to audit by the Office of the Inspector General and the General Accounting Office.