Management

Lawmakers seek earlier financial audits, fewer improper payments

Executives share strategies for improving financial performance.

Management

Contractor duels with Air Force over accusations of wrongdoing

Agency warned contracting officers of rules’ violations, which the company denies.

Management

Chief financial officers highlight their job challenges

Blurred roles of CFOs and information officers create confusion, said senior official.

News

Lawmakers stand ground on Pentagon job competition rules

Defense Department seeks repeal of legislation requiring contractors to offer employees health benefits comparable to those of federal workers.

Management

President renews pledge to reform personnel system

Budget proposal hails management agenda as a money-saving tool.

Management

Nuclear security agency needs more scientists, GAO says

Contractors responsible for nuclear facilities face expiring contracts and mass retirements.

News

OMB gives Smithsonian failing grades

Compared to large agencies, the home of the nation’s museums ranks poorly on management initiatives.

Management

Agencies struggle to reduce improper payments

Latest numbers show benefits programs dish out too much money.

News And Analysis

Blizzard of Bids

Management

Agencies to get new guidance on use of commercial products

Legislation pressures agencies to give up costly customization and adapt to what’s available.

Management

SBA under pressure to probe contracting issues

Big companies accused of misrepresenting themselves as small businesses to win federal contract dollars.

News

OMB to seek governmentwide personnel reform

Proposals for mandatory program evaluations also will be included in the president’s fiscal 2006 budget proposal.

News

Defense practices and interagency contracting labeled ‘high risk’ by GAO

Student financial aid and financial management at FAA and the Forest Service are crossed off the high-risk list amid overall progress.

News

Agriculture facility uses hiring freeze to reduce job loss from competition

Displaced employees will be offered vacant positions as technicians and clerical workers.

News

OMB reports job competitions saved $1.4 billion last year

Total increased from $1.1 billion in fiscal 2003, giving more momentum to competitive sourcing initiative.

News

OMB lowers management grades of four agencies

Unusual move may signal a tougher approach to reform efforts in President Bush’s second term.

Management

Performance-based energy savings contracts may cost government

A form of share-in-savings contracts allow quick investment but cost agencies more in the long-run, says report.

News

AID relies on outside help in relief effort

Contracts with Defense Department and grants to nongovernmental organizations enable the agency to pitch in after tsunami disaster.

News

Financial management reform bill on the way

House subcommittee chairman wants to simplify reporting requirements implemented over the past two decades.

Management

Publications give executives new management tools, ideas

RAND book provides “mental warm-up exercises;” IBM report tells careerists and appointees how to get along.