Acquisition
Procurement challenges step up to the COVID-19 plate
Steve Kelman spotlights another example of how non-traditional acquisition models can encourage innovation.
People
What do narcissists do to team performance?
Steve Kelman shares suggestive new research -- and offers some ideas for how federal managers might act on it.
Acquisition
Even when government gets it right, it gets no credit -- a ventilator story
Steve Kelman spotlights a story of smart acquisition hidden behind a doom-and-gloom headline.
People
Let's call Dr. Fauci by his proper title -- public servant
Steve Kelman argues that Americans need to understand the essential contributions civil servants make to our society's mix.
Acquisition
A traditional program manager joins the rebellion
Steve Kelman reports on the internally driven innovation taking place in the Air Force's BESPIN program.
People
This management tool can help your organization perform better -- and make YOU feel better too!
Steve Kelman argues that we all should be much more willing to ask for help.
Digital Government
How to present data to an audience
Steve Kelman shares some tips for keeping a data-driven message compelling, not confusing.
People
Carrots or sticks?
Steve Kelman considers the research on what makes for an effective motivator.
People
The power of bad
Steve Kelman shares insights from a new book about negativity and the importance of seeking out the positive.
People
Does strategic planning help organizations?
Steve Kelman notes growing support for strategic planning efforts -- and the steps agencies take to keep those plans relevant.
Digital Government
Government at work -- curbing curbside congestion
Steve Kelman looks at another area where civil servants are quietly working to make our lives better.
People
Note to government: Start talking like everybody else!
Steve Kelman takes issue with jargon that serves mainly to create artificial distinctions from the private sector.
People
A civic tech summer fellow becomes a full-time fed
Steve Kelman reports that Coding it Forward is turning temporary college-break postings into longer-term public service commitments.
Acquisition
How contracting officers want to use the new micropurchase threshold
Steve Kelman's recent talk with feds reinforced his view that a $10,000 micropurchase limit opens up vast new acquisition possibilities.
Digital Government
6 observations on the state of China
Steve Kelman shares what he learned on a recent 10-day visit.
Digital Government
A government contractor crosses over to USDS
Steve Kelman reports on what prompted Kelly O'Connor to take an rather unusual career turn.
Acquisition
Steve's peeve about a common contracting phrase
When it comes to discussion of government contracts, Steve Kelman contends that "the L word" comes up far too often.
Digital Government
Will civic tech save government from its tech talent crisis?
Students drawn to digital government are bringing desperately needed skills (and enthusiasm) to agencies that are willing to engage, Steve Kelman writes.
People
Project management vs. product management
Steve Kelman argues that government innovation needs more of the latter.
People