Focus on a Smooth Transition

here are three areas in which this case study can best be analyzed--dealing with change, political realities and budget constraints.

Devine's first option is a hands-off approach, allowing the activities to take place. Technically, the information has not yet been released and therefore is not valid. Official word should be received before a course of action is plotted. If the decisions have been made from the top, nothing can be done about the closings. Devine should have a wait-and-see attitude.

Another option is to push to keep the installation open, using a cost-benefit approach to show the benefits of such a choice. A solid case may be made that the facility is adding value for the money spent. The facility's reform has been a success story, which should be told. Devine can pursue several courses of action. He could rally special interest groups while also contacting political leadership and tapping into informal influential channels.

Another alternative for Devine is to create a compromise. Maybe officials can keep part of the installation open or use the facility for another function. Maybe they can reassign the workforce into other positions within the agency. Devine has a responsibility to give the staff his support and his guidance.

But Devine's most viable option is to work on creating a smooth transition with the other installation. He can meet with the staff and share the details on hand. With this information, employees can come up with appropriate means to deal with the closing. By allowing the employees to be a part of the process, the team may be able to find an alternative closing process. The installation's success proves that innovation and creativity are there.

Gordon Sherman has been regional commissioner of the Social Security Administration in Atlanta for more than 22 years. He has more than 40 years of federal service and has won the Presidential Distinguished Executive Rank Award, two Presidential Meritorious Executive Rank Awards, and the National Public Service Award.