OPM Releases Final HR Policy Ruling

The Office of Personal Management has released the long-awaited final rule on the overhaul to federal  human capital practices.

Intended to align human capital management practices to broader agency strategic planning activities, the new rule establishes the Human Capital Framework (HCF), which replaces the Human Capital Assessment and Accountability Framework (HCAAF).  This rule also reduces and clarifies the reporting procedures agencies are required to follow; creates a data-driven review process (HRStat); and describes workforce planning methods that agencies are required to follow. 

In other words, it asks agencies to develop a talent management system that is integrated into agency planning and management processes, remains current with research and best practices, and allows for proactive responses to anticipated environmental changes. This will enable agency leadership to better leverage the workforce to achieve results, says OPM.

In addition, the ruling makes changes to the annual Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey. Specifically, future surveys will be shorter, requiring 16 questions instead of 45. However, the final regulation will allow agencies to include additional survey questions specific to their particular organizations and missions. 

This rule is effective April 11, 2017. OPM will provide additional guidance for agencies about the planning and implementation requirements presented within this regulation.