Defense
New Defense personnel system frees managers
But the ability to link pay raises more closely to job performance and to move employees between jobs comes with a cost.
Oversight
Capitol Hill forecast: Even less legislative agreement
End-of-session acrimony that marked 2007 appears likely to carry over in 2008.
Defense
Senate chairman criticizes sale of fighter planes to Pakistan
Lockheed Martin awarded $500 million contract to supply nation with 18 F-16 aircraft.
Pay & Benefits
Extending Benefits
Lawmakers re-launch effort to grant same-sex domestic partner benefits to federal employees; also, OPM makes retirement records electronic.
Oversight
Census program to use handheld computers said to be in ‘serious trouble’
Analysis recommends agency develop contingency plan to use paper forms.
Defense
Transportation issues rules on lithium batteries
New regulations require that spare batteries used in a range of electronic devices be packed in carry-on luggage.
Tech
GSA awards governmentwide contracts for human resources technology
Agencies will compete with private companies for federal business.
Oversight
New rule on women-owned small business contracting draws fire
Small Business Administration proposal would limit set-asides to only four industries.
Oversight
FAA, controllers union to hold second meeting on safety issues
Get-togethers could be sign that relationship between management, union, is improving.
Features
Girding For Battle
The Pentagon and military services are gearing up for a bruising quadrennial review that could reshape the way we fight.
News And Analysis
Behind the Wheel
The perils of letting short-term planning drive major weapons programs.
News And Analysis
For Future Reference
Space center beefs up knowledge database as experienced staffers ready to retire.
Managing Technology
Making Up For Lost Time
Agencies failed to meet the first deadline for HSPD-12. Now they need to get on the ball.
Viewpoint