Federal Manager's Daily Report

OPM guidance to agencies on responding to the annual Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey results–some agencies have been getting data already although the government-wide announcement still is pending–tells them to build a plan of action around weaknesses those data reveal.

It says that first they should categorize potential action into three categories: “low hanging fruit” actions that can be undertaken quickly and easily to solve a problem, with minimal effort; short term actions that can be completed within two to three months; and long term actions that “may require greater effort, understanding and/or resources.”

In carrying out their plans, agencies should “consider the following”:
* “Create meaningful action plans and goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely (SMART).
* “Ensure your plan of action is connected to, and complements, the agency’s mission. Ensure that your proposed actions align with organizational culture and strategy.
* “Identify and define clear measures of success.
* “Determine what resources or support are needed to address identified issues.
* “Establish and communicate a vision of the proposed actions, including potential impact, to gain leadership and organization buy-in.
* “Communicate with your workforce the strategy behind the plan and your steps for implementation.
* “Address action items that can be solved simply and quickly. Quick successes will help people stay committed to implementing those actions that need more time.
* “Customize your engagement strategies and actions to meet the specific needs of individual components.
* “Communicate progress regularly to all levels of the workforce. Tie actions taken back to feedback received through the FEVS.
* “Track and monitor the plan’s impact continuously to ensure that the intended results are being experienced. Consider using facilitated focus groups, pulse surveys, or other means to connect with employees.”