As technology changes mission requirements, the management of human capital, and how work is done at the Federal level, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a new report today recommending how Federal agencies should remain cognizant of emerging tech’s impact on managing and maintaining their workforce.
The Federal workforce will have to develop new skillsets to meet the demand of technological advances and expertise. Automation, artificial intelligence, robotic process automation, and communication technologies will not only change the workforce, but also the hiring process.
“Experts stated that technology can help improve recruitment efforts, streamline hiring processes, and match employees to tasks,” GAO wrote. Employees will need to consistently update their digital literacy to remain competitive in the hiring process and to keep up with agencies mission goals.
For example, along the lines of mission requirements, GAO reported that the Census Bureau – because of technological advancements – is allowing citizens to fill out the 2020 census on the internet. The Census Bureau is also leveraging nonfederal partners and technology to respond to the aforementioned mission requirements that are continuously evolving.
GAO added that Federal agencies incorporating interdisciplinary IT workforce talent will have an easier time assessing gaps in talent by “defining, developing, and deploying workers based on skills and competencies, not by occupational series.” Additionally, Federal agencies must monitor progress toward closing skills gaps and cultivate a diverse talent pipeline.
