The Three Big Mistakes in the 2020 Plum Book For most people, the only way to find out who is serving in the top decision-making positions in government is to reference the 2020 Plum Book. Unfortunately, this document has significant procedural and factual problems and could be greatly improved. Read More
Representative Derek Kilmer on Congressional Modernization and Transitions During this episode of Transition Lab, Kilmer joined host David Marchick to discuss the panel’s recommendations for increasing civility, bipartisanship and trust among members of Congress, helping new members transition from campaigning to governing and better preparing the institution for emergencies such as the ongoing pandemic. Read More
Improving the Plum Book: The Need to Modernize Information about Federal Leadership The Plum Book is the most comprehensive source about officials serving in the federal government. It contains information on more than 4,000 political appointees–1,200 of whom are subject to Senate confirmation–along with thousands of other jobs filled by senior career officials in the federal civil service. Unfortunately, the Plum Book has been produced largely the same way since 1952, and should be modernized to provide greater transparency and accountability. Read More
New report offers recommendations to government on how to use and promote technical innovation As our world becomes increasingly digital with new life-changing innovations on the way, federal agencies will need digital, technological and innovation expertise to provide Americans with necessary services. Read More
A novel approach to budgeting for government modernization – ideas for new leaders One of the first major policy requirements for any new president is to submit a budget proposal to Congress. For recently elected administrations, this budget is usually presented in February—less than a month into a first term—followed by a more detailed request later in the spring. Presidential transition teams often begin preparing their budget proposals before inauguration. Read More
New report explores how to manage the changing federal government The federal government must evolve to support technology, data and the evolution of workplace demands to confront changes in the landscape of the workforce. Read More
Presidential transition teams need accurate data to fill federal jobs The 2020 presidential campaign is well underway as the first primaries and caucuses rapidly approach. Soon, presidential hopefuls will need to assemble a team to plan a transition — either to a new administration or a second term. Read More