I think it's interesting to see how well they've done. I think that if the US were also to employ programmers directly we'd see better products than with the current system.
1. 18F - An pool of in-house developers working with agencies to build (or rebuild) services. https://18f.gsa.gov/
2. US Digital Service - A group of technologists quietly trying to rescue projects (like healthcare.gov, the VA) and change policy. http://www.whitehouse.gov/digital/united-states-digital-serv...
Plenty of roadblocks and difficult times ahead for both groups - but unlike before when failure was guaranteed, they've already had some wins and have a non-zero chance of success.
> The name 18F refers to GSA headquarters building, which is located on 18th and F streets in Washington.
I agree that 18F is a bad name. They should have just called it "Government Digital Service" like the UK version of the same.