Some Thoughts on the NSPS Report

Obviously, the big news yesterday was the release of the final report by the Defense Business Board panel tasked with reviewing the National Security Personnel System. While it was a significant milestone, the end of a significant effort, and provoked a significant reaction, there are a couple of things I think it's important to think in mind.

1. This is not the end of the road for NSPS. It's just a road sign along the way. Ultimately, the decision about the future of the National Security Personnel System lies in other hands. The report isn't binding, and it never was. Deputy Defense Secretary William Lynn and Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry will be meeting and conferring about the system's future. Congress may move amendments to the Defense Authorization Act that could end NSPS. What's important is less the report itself and more how the report interacts with decision-making processes that are already under way.