Who is responsible for authorizing the operation of an information system in eMASS?

In the context of eMASS and information system authorization, the Authorizing Official (AO) plays a crucial role. The AO is the individual with the authority to formally accept the risk associated with operating an information system. This responsibility includes evaluating the security controls in place and determining whether they are adequate to protect the information system and the data it processes.

The AO's decision to authorize the operation is based on a thorough assessment of the system’s security posture, which is detailed in the security authorization package. This package typically includes the Risk Management Framework (RMF) documentation, security assessment results, and the system’s security plan. By accepting the risk, the AO ensures that the information system can operate within the established risk tolerance of the organization.

Other roles, such as the Project Manager, System Owner, and Security Officer, have important responsibilities in the realm of information security, but they do not have the final authority to authorize the system’s operation. For instance, the Project Manager is focused on overall project delivery, the System Owner carries the responsibility for the system's strategic direction and operational planning, and the Security Officer manages security practices and policies. However, it is the AO who ultimately has the authority to sign off on the system's operation, making