Management

Competitive sourcing veterans share stories, tips

Agencies should focus on communication before and during competitions, and follow-through once they are finished, officials say.

Defense

Security clearance processing deadlines pose challenges

For the first time in months, the Defense Security Service fully resumes its work.

Tech

In pandemic, homes could become 'safe havens' for work

OPM issues guidelines for agencies on maintaining operations in the event of a flu outbreak.

Defense

Partisans seek edge in homeland security funding

Senior Republicans are increasingly frustrated with DHS’ financial management, especially that of the Federal Protective Service.

Defense

Review of Army combat program challenges need for lighter vehicles

Study could help ease requirements for future fleet, quickening vehicle development and ultimately reducing costs.

Tech

Two federal programs honored for innovations

Awards come with $100,000 prize, designed to help apply the programs’ creative ideas elsewhere in government.

Defense

Congress faces time crunch on spending bills

Senate leaders weigh attaching a continuing resolution to Defense bill to fund other areas of government until after the election.

Defense

Retaining Hispanics, Spanish speakers key, Coast Guard chief says

Agency enjoys highest post-WWII retention rate, numbers of Hispanics taking federal jobs up across government.

Management

Ex-Powell aide urges appointees to trust employees

At Excellence in Government conference, Larry Wilkerson also encourages federal workers to speak up if they encounter wrongdoing.

Management

Public service academy proposal gains lawmakers’ ears

The free four-year undergraduate education would require a five-year service commitment.

Defense

Defense business agency gets Iraq contracting assignment

Business Transformation Agency will head up effort to improve policies and procedures for rebuilding Iraq.

Defense

Contractor’s rise shows blurred government, industry lines

Despite several failed projects, Science Applications International Corp. has grown into one of the top federal contractors.

Defense

Lawmakers seek details on DHS plans for detainee surge

Possibility of using cruise ships to hold illegal immigrants raises concerns about expense and waste, the legislators say.

Management

Defense Department seeks input on military mail overhaul

Push for transformational, end-to-end solution could result in public-private job competition.

Tech

Feds displaced by flooding offered use of telework centers

Month-long closure of IRS headquarters prompts GSA to open its 14 telework centers to affected employees at no charge.

Defense

House Democrats seek more money for rail, mass transit security

Citing Homeland Security Committee report, lawmakers assail Bush administration priorities.

Defense

House loosens claims policy for debt-ridden flood program

Congress already has allowed FEMA to borrow $20.8 billion from the Treasury to pay claims from hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Defense

Defense contractors gear up to fight foreign metals ban

Industry groups want to ensure that the conference version of the defense authorization bill does not alter the status quo.

Management

House agrees to provision limiting competitive sourcing

After three years of House passage but defeat later in the legislative process, language’s chances of enactment are unclear.

Tech

House steps up telework requirements at several agencies

Agencies would face financial penalties if they fail to increase the number of employees eligible to work away from the office.