Now that the Departments of Homeland Security and Defense have formally presented plans to reform their personnel systems, and since the administration has announced its intent to carry those systems government-wide, FedSmith.com is asking readers what they think of the changes.
The massive overhaul, certainly the most sweeping change to the federal personnel system since 1978’s Civil Service Reform Act, and perhaps ever, enables managers to reward outstanding performers and punish the poor performers much more quickly and without union involvement.
DoD’s modernization plans were presented last week and were published in the Federal Register Monday, Feb. 14. After a 90-day comment period, final rules are expected in May. DHS’s plans were presented in late January. Both plans are essentially the same and will serve as the blueprint for the administration’s plans to allow all agencies to adopt similar personnel reforms.
So, inquiring minds would like to know. What is the best thing about the changes? What is the worst thing about the changes? Are personnel management reforms in the federal government really necessary and should these reforms be implemented across the government?
While there is no question unions are losing power, do you agree with the union response of suing the departments? Do you believe these lawsuits will have any impact on implementation of the new personnel management systems?
