Press Office
Food and Drug Administration
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services


NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS         Print Media:         301-827-6242 
March 16, 1998                 
                               Consumer Inquiries:  800-532-4440

FDA HONORED BY SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION FOR TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION

The Smithsonian Institution has recognized FDA's computer system used to improve the regulation of imported products as an example of an innovative technology that improves society. On April 6, 1998, FDA's system, named OASIS, will be honored as part of the Permanent Research Collection of Information Technology Innovation at the National Museum of American History. The collection includes case studies of more than 400 of the year's most innovative applications of technology in both the U.S. and other countries.

OASIS stands for the "Operational and Administrative System for Import Support." The OASIS system has been fully operational since October, 1996. It was developed in cooperation with the U.S. Customs Service and is based, in part, on their existing computer system. OASIS helps FDA identify and detain imported FDA-regulated products, such as food, drugs, and devices, that do not meet U.S. standards while allowing rapid release of products in compliance.

In addition, the OASIS computer system creates a permanent record that allows FDA to more accurately track how products are distributed so, if necessary, FDA can locate unsafe products and have them withdrawn from the marketplace. For example, if a foodborne illness occurs, and an imported product is identified as causing the illness, FDA can determine which importers may have received the product. FDA continues to modify OASIS so that it can be as efficient as possible.

For further information about the Computerworld Smithsonian Awards Innovation Collection, contact either Mark Bailey or Simone Ross, Computerworld Smithsonian Awards, 617-478-2704.

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