Federal agencies grapple with new capped performance ratings, sparking morale and fairness concerns

In response to an OPM directive, federal agencies must cap “outstanding” (5) and “exceeds fully successful” (4) performance scores at 40% of General Schedule employees for one outlet's review cycle and have set up senior-level calibration panels to vet ratings. The panels are meant to ensure scores are evidence-based and applied consistently, but critics say the forced distribution creates competition for scarce top marks and depresses morale, as illustrated by complaints from IRS, Veterans Affairs and Mine Safety and Health Administration managers.

Training webinars have struggled to accommodate demand, and staff report vague instructions on self-evaluations and rating criteria. Unions, including AFGE Local 2883 representing CDC personnel, describe the process as rushed and detrimental to collaborative missions. OPM spokesperson Kiki Nyoh defended the 40% limit as a balance between standards and recognition, while experts Bob Tobias and Ellen Rubin warned that forced distributions can demotivate workers and invite discrimination claims.