6 A decision you can actually manage
DACS distinguishes the results of individual checks from the decision about whether information may be used. Applicable checks are recorded as Pass, Fail, or Not Applicable, with reasons and supporting evidence. Separately, an Accountability Gate may establish the following readiness states:
|
Gate outcome |
What leadership needs to know |
|---|---|
|
Proceed |
The applicable Gate requirements are satisfied. The recorded use may proceed while its stated conditions remain valid. |
|
Caution |
A specifically authorized use may proceed only within recorded, enforceable limits. Failed controls remain failed; caution does not turn fails into passes. |
|
Stop |
A blocking condition prevents the affected business use. Correct the problem and reassess before proceeding. |
|
Quarantined |
Candidate or unresolved information is preserved for exploration, review, or correction, but cannot support the material decision. |
The presence of a named accountability control (Gate) state does not mean a Gate Outcome has been earned. It must be supported by the required assessment, evidence, authority, and recorded decision. A human approval alone cannot override a mandatory DACS failure.