Management
Latest attempt to cut Defense Travel System fails
Final version of authorization bill orders independent study of system.
Management
Experts discuss how blogs helped pass database bill
Measure signed by President Bush early last week calls for OMB to create a free search engine and database to track federal grants and contracts.
Management
Senator unsure of postal overhaul's lame duck prospects
A key issue is whether the Postal Service should price single-piece parcels based on market forces.
Management
OPM launches online toolkit to speed federal hiring
Web site will help agencies identify weak points in recruitment strategies.
Management
Practitioners: Strategic sourcing doesn’t have to hurt small firms
Agencies should consider purchasing priorities -- including small business goals -- upfront, discussion participants say.
Tech
Movement in federal IT jobs increasing, panelists say
The “golden handcuffs” perception of federal work is fading, fostering more back and forth between the civil service and the private sector.
Management
Command Presence
It’s not only what you say, but how you say it that makes a strong leader.
Tech
Watchdog group previews federal spending search tool
New Web site may set the standard for a future site required by a recently signed law.
Defense
Pentagon official optimistic about overturning labor ruling
David Chu says if Defense loses court case, the department may ask Congress for help.
Management
Postal reform bill close to final passage
A few areas of possible contention remain, including the rules for postal rate increases and workers compensation.
Defense
Judge rejects request to dismiss ex-Park Police chief’s suit
Privacy Act suit seeks performance evaluation that attorneys argue is central to the potential reinstatement of Teresa Chambers.
Management
GAO backs more accountability in grant programs
Agencies should work with grantees to find useful performance metrics, study finds.
Tech
Review: Security flaws place DHS inspectors’ laptops at risk
Weak inventory procedures and security policies contribute to vulnerability of inspector general laptops containing sensitive information.
Defense
Congress moves to raise FEMA’s profile
Agency chief would assume an advisory role with the White House under language in an appropriations bill passed late Friday.
Defense
Congress withholds millions from DHS personnel system
This month, the department will bring 6,700 more employees under the plan, centered on market and performance-based pay.
Management
Senate confirms former highway administrator as Transportation chief
Mary Peters also has headed the Arizona Department of Transportation, and considered a race for governor.
Tech
New IT agreements may reduce DHS reliance on interagency contracts
Department also is working to hire more acquisition workers to oversee contracts, officials say in response to GAO report.
Defense
DHS updates purchase card requirements
Investigators called upon DHS to make changes over summer, in response to reports of fraudulent use of cards after Hurricane Katrina.
Management
Time running out to nominate a Democrat to labor board
Senate Democrats urge President Bush to make an appointment for the required slot.
Tech