Top Chief Challenges

Establishing guidance and providing training to federal employees on new information technology systems and government 2.0 tools is one of the top challenges for agency chief executives, according to a new survey by the Government Business Council.

The survey, completed by more than 200 federal executives randomly selected from Government Executive's subscriber database, found that 52 percent of respondents consider IT training one of the top issues facing chief executives.

Managers interviewed by GBC, Government Executive's research arm, said that while they understand the importance of introducing new technologies, particularly to attract younger workers, they often feel like their needs are not taken into consideration when leaders decide which technologies to adopt. They also believe beefed-up training on how to use new tools is necessary, GBC found.

Managers also cited technological support for telework as a top tech challenge facing agency chiefs, according to the survey.

Among human capital challenges, managers told GBC that the federal hiring process was their most pressing issue, noting that they wish chief human capital officers would take ownership of the hiring process, including ensuring systems are modern and up-to-date and that applicants receive a timely response. Managers also identified employee onboarding, long-term career development and work-life balance as top human capital challenges.

In addition, 40 percent of respondents said the human capital situation at their agency has deteriorated over the last two years, either somewhat or markedly. Many managers interviewed by GBC indicated that widespread vacancies continue to exacerbate both the human capital situation at their agencies and their ability to be effective in other areas.