2019 Office of Personnel Management 

Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey

Empowering Employees. Inspiring Change.

Federal Election Commission 

Small Agency Management Report

United States Office of Personnel Management OPM.GOV/FEVS #FEVS
ii

Table of Contents

About This Report ..................................................................................................................................................................................1

Respondent Overview............................................................................................................................................................................4

Employee Engagement Index.................................................................................................................................................................5

Employee Engagement Index Benchmarks........................................................................................................................................5

Employee Engagement Index Component Scores and Trends ...........................................................................................................6

New IQ Index .........................................................................................................................................................................................7

New IQ Index Benchmarks................................................................................................................................................................7

New IQ Index Component Scores and Trends....................................................................................................................................8

Global Satisfaction Index .......................................................................................................................................................................9

Global Satisfaction Index Benchmarks..............................................................................................................................................9

Global Satisfaction Index Component Scores and Trends ............................................................................................................... 10

Decision Aid: Increases........................................................................................................................................................................ 11

Decision Aid: Decreases....................................................................................................................................................................... 14

Decision Aid: No Change..................................................................................................................................................................... 16

Appendix A: Item Change Summary.................................................................................................................................................... 17

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks......................................................................................................................................... 20

Appendix C: Partial Government Shutdown Results ............................................................................................................................ 27

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results ................................................................................................................... 29

Appendix E: Participating Agencies by Employee Population Size Categories ..................................................................................... 35
1

About This Report

The 2019 OPM Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (OPM FEVS) Small Agency Management Report (SAM) 

was designed to provide an overview of survey results, enabling agencies to easily identify issues and take action 

for improvement. The SAM can be helpful in providing a starting point for analysis of your agency’s OPM 

FEVS results, acting as an agency overview before drilling down into specific components of the agency for a 

more in-depth analysis. This report also highlights important agency successes, which should be acknowledged. 

We encourage you to share both successes and areas for improvement with employees. 

Sections of the SAM

Respondent Overview

The Respondent Overview provides a snapshot of the characteristics of your employees who responded to 

the survey. Understanding who responded in your agency has a number of benefits. For example, this section 

allows you to better understand the ratio of seasoned employees who may be preparing for retirement to newer 

employees, which can be helpful in guiding your recruiting and retention efforts. It is important to keep in mind 

that this is a survey respondent overview, and these percentages may not match up exactly to your agency’s total 

population characteristics.

Employee Engagement Index, New IQ Index, and Global Satisfaction Index

The Employee Engagement Index (EEI), New IQ Index, and Global Satisfaction Index provide agencies with 

consistent metrics for measuring progress toward objectives. Benchmarks are included to provide insight into how 

your agency compares to others, and to encourage information sharing between agencies. For example, some of 

the top ranking agencies in the Employee Engagement Index may have suggestions on things that have and have 

not worked to engage their employees. Trends for all three indices are also displayed.

Decision Aid

The Decision Aid is useful in easily identifying the most critical issues in your agency as well as recognizing where 

your agency has improved since 2018. The Decision Aid is divided into three sections to help you focus your 

attention on improvements and declines in your results since last year:

Increases contains items that increased since 2018

Decreases contains items that decreased since 2018

No Change contains items that did not change since 2018

Appendices

The appendices give you an opportunity to more thoroughly understand your workforce by displaying item-level results. 

Appendix A outlines the 2019 OPM FEVS item changes/improvements since 2018.

Appendix B shows how well your agency scored relative to other small agencies. Scanning the graphs can indicate 

how your agency is generally performing as well as help you identify particularly strong or weak areas. 

Appendix C shows the breakdown of the 2018-2019 Partial Government Shutdown results.

Appendix D shows the breakdown of the Work-Life Program and demographic results.

Appendix E lists all agencies arranged by employee population size. 

Note: The Decision Aid only includes items 1-71. See Appendix D for a breakdown of the Work-Life results for your agency.

About This Report
2

About This Report (continued)

Understanding Your Results

When reviewing results, keep the guidelines below in mind. These guidelines were created to organize survey 

results in a way that is easier to digest and interpret.

Percent Positive

The sum of two positive categories (e.g., Strongly Agree/Agree)

Percent Negative

The sum of two negative categories (e.g., Strongly Disagree/Disagree)

Percent Neutral

The neutral category (e.g., Neither Agree nor Disagree)

Identifying Strengths, Challenges, and Neutral Findings

65 percent positive or higher is considered a strength

35 percent negative or higher is considered a challenge

30 percent neutral or higher suggests uncertainty, presenting an opportunity for communication 

between managers and staff

Identifying Increases and Decreases

Movement up or down since the previous year is another important piece of information to consider when 

examining your results. Any increase or decrease in results can be important; however larger increases or 

decreases (generally 3 or more percentage points) may be a result of significant changes taking place within 

your agency and should be explored. Increases indicate positive change that should continue to be reinforced. 

Decreases, especially in areas considered mission critical, may call for appropriate action to initiate and support 

beneficial workplace improvements.

Additional OPM FEVS Resources

Other Reports

Governmentwide Management Report

 This report provides an overview of the governmentwide results. The report includes item results, index scores, 

information on who responded to the survey, survey updates, and other special topics.

All Levels, All Indices, All Items Report

 The purpose of this report is to provide a comprehensive summary of all OPM FEVS items and index scores for 

subagencies with at least 10 respondents in a Microsoft® Excel® spreadsheet.

Subagency Comparison Report

 This report provides the results of all the offices that report to the same “parent” office. This report is only 

created when there are two or more sub-offices that both have at least 10 responses. Note: Subagency reports are 

only available for agencies that included organizational breakouts in 2019.

Subagency Breakout Report

 This report displays survey results for a single office so long as it has at least 10 responses. Note: Subagency 

reports are only available for agencies that included organizational breakouts in 2019.

About This Report
3

About This Report (continued)

Occupational Series Reports

 This report allows for the comparison of occupational series and families at the agency and first level.

Annual Employee Survey (AES) Report

 This report is a Microsoft® Excel® spreadsheet with a breakdown of agency and first level results. It also includes 

trends from previous OPM FEVS administrations.

Websites

OPM FEVS website

 Agencies and the general public can access governmentwide data reports, as well as special topic reports 

produced from the OPM FEVS. This website includes results from the 2004 administration of the survey to the 

present. Access the OPM FEVS website at www.opm.gov/FEVS.

Public Release Data File (PRDF)

 A public use data set is available for the OPM FEVS and can be requested by completing the form available 

at: www.opm.gov/fevs/public-data-file. Note: The 2019 PRDF will be available in the winter.

FedScope

 OPM’s FedScope is an online publicly available tool which allows users to access and analyze HR data from OPM’s 

Enterprise Human Resources Integration (EHRI). Access this site using the following link: www.fedscope.opm.gov.

UnlockTalent

 A tool available to both the public and agencies for viewing comprehensive data visualizations with broad 

displays of OPM FEVS data. These displays allow agencies to identify subcomponents for action to improve 

engagement and overall satisfaction as well as highlight indicators that can contribute to a high performing 

organization. Agency specific case studies, best practices, videos, trainings, and other helpful resources can be 

found on the UnlockTalent Connect page. This site can be accessed at www.unlocktalent.gov. Questions and 

feedback can be sent to unlocktalent@opm.gov.

OPM FEVS Online Reporting and Analysis Tool

 A password protected tool for agency points of contact to access agency-specific and governmentwide reports. In 

addition, agency users can develop customized reports that may be useful for data analysis and action planning. 

Questions and feedback for this online tool can be sent to EVS@opm.gov.

About This Report
4

Respondent Overview

The Unique Characteristics of Federal Election 

Commission Respondents

The figures below provide a snapshot of your survey participants. 

The most frequently selected response choice for each demographic 

item is highlighted in the first figure. The second figure displays the 

total breakdown of OPM FEVS respondents by generation. Please 

be aware that these results are based on survey respondents, which 

may differ from the characteristics of the total employee population 

of your agency.

Female

54 %

Agency Tenure of 

11+ Years

62 %

10

Federal Tenure of 

11+ Years

68 %

FT

Advanced Degrees 

(Post Bachelor’s Degree)

57 %

Pay Grades 

13 to 15

60 %

Generations

 0% Traditionalists (born 1945 or earlier)

 30% Baby Boomers (born 1946 – 1964)

37% Generation X (born 1965 – 1980)

33% Generation Y (born 1981 – 1996)

 0% Generation Z (born 1997 or later)

FEC Response Rate

55% (153 out of 277 

employees responded)

Field Period: May 23, 2019 – July 5, 2019 

Overall 2018 Response Rate: 61%

Component Response Rates

 63% Office of General Counsel (OGC)

 52% Office of the Staff Director (OSD)

Agency results have a margin of error of +/- 8%

Notes: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. For the full list of demographic item results, please see Appendix D.

Respondent Overview
5

Employee Engagement Index

Because the OPM FEVS is an assessment of organizational climate, the Employee Engagement Index (EEI) does 

not directly evaluate an employee’s level of engagement. Therefore, instead of measuring aspects of engagement 

such as focused attention and dedication to completing assignments, this index concentrates on factors that lead to 

an engaged workforce (e.g., supporting employee development, communicating agency goals).

Below, you can see where your agency’s EEI score ranks (out of 42 small agencies with 10 or more respondents) 

and how it compares to the combined small agency average. The names of the highest-ranked small agencies are 

listed to facilitate the sharing of information, such as best practices. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management 

(OPM) has also created the UnlockTalent website (www.unlocktalent.gov) to share resources and help with 

interagency communication.

Employee Engagement Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies, Combined

rank

1 98% MMC

rank

2 88% OGE, OSHRC

rank

4 84% USITC

rank

30 FEC 65%

69% Small Agencies, Combined

In addition to looking at your agency’s EEI results from a combined small agencies perspective, the figure below 

allows you to compare your EEI results to those from similar sized agencies. Appendix E contains a listing of 

agencies by size category for your reference.

Employee Engagement Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies (100 – 999 employees)

rank

1 84% USITC

rank

2 80% PBGC

rank

3 79% FCA, OSC

rank

22 FEC 65%

70% Small Agencies

Employee Engagement Index
6

Employee Engagement Index (continued)

This table displays the EEI score for each component in your agency as well as the scores for the three engagement 

subindices, which can facilitate information-sharing within your agency. To provide more information on engagement, 

the table also includes engagement trends back to 2016 for your components, as well as the combined small agency 

trends for comparison. Please note that depending on organizational structure in previous administrations, not all 

components may trend back to 2016.

Employee Engagement Index Component Scores and Trends

Agency

EEI Trends 2019 EEI Subindices

2016 2017 2018 2019

Leaders 

Lead Supervisors

Intrinsic Work 

Experience

Small Agencies, Combined 69 70 69 69 55 79 73

Federal Election Commission 52 56 63 65 45 80 71

Office of the Staff Director (OSD) 53 57 64 67 45 83 73

Office of General Counsel (OGC) 46 51 59 62 43 75 68

Leaders Lead: Employees’ perceptions of leadership’s integrity as well as leadership behaviors such as communication and workforce motivation. (Q.53, 54, 56, 60, and 61)

Supervisors: Interpersonal relationship between worker and supervisor, including trust, respect, and support. (Q.47, 48, 49, 51, and 52)

Intrinsic Work Experience: Employees’ feelings of motivation and competency relating to their role in the workplace. (Q.3, 4, 6, 11, and 12)

Employee Engagement Index
7

New IQ Index

The New IQ stands for the New Inclusion Quotient. The New IQ is based on the concept that individual behaviors 

repeated over time will create habits necessary for inclusiveness. It consists of 20 questions that relate to inclusive 

work environments. These 20 questions are grouped into five Habits of Inclusion: Fair, Open, Cooperative, Supportive, 

and Empowering. The New IQ Index score for your agency, the highest scoring agencies, and the combined small agency 

average, are displayed below, along with your agency ranking (out of 42 small agencies with 10 or more respondents).

New IQ Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies, Combined

rank

1 94% MMC

rank

2 88% OSHRC

rank

3 81% OGE

rank

24 FEC 61%

63% Small Agencies, Combined

In addition to looking at your agency’s New IQ Index results from a combined small agencies perspective, the 

figure below allows you to compare your New IQ Index results to those from similar sized agencies. Appendix E 

contains a listing of agencies by size category for your reference.

New IQ Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies (100 – 999 employees)

rank

1 78% USITC

rank

2 75% FCA

rank

3 74% FMC, PBGC

rank

17 FEC 61%

64% Small Agencies

New IQ Index
8

New IQ Index (continued)

This table shows the New IQ Index score for each component in your agency as well as the scores for all five 

habits of inclusion. To provide more information on the New IQ, the table also includes trends back to 2016 

for your components, as well as combined small agency trends for comparison. Please note that depending on 

organizational structure in previous administrations, not all components may trend back to 2016.

New IQ Index Component Scores and Trends

Agency

New IQ Index Trends 2019 New IQ Index Subindices

2016 2017 2018 2019 Fair Open Cooperative Supportive Empowering

Small Agencies, Combined 62 64 63 63 52 61 57 82 61

Federal Election Commission 48 51 57 61 45 59 56 82 60

Office of the Staff Director (OSD) 49 53 58 63 48 62 55 86 62

Office of General Counsel (OGC) 44 46 52 56 39 52 57 77 55

Fair: Are all employees treated equally? (Q.23, 24, 25, 37, and 38)

Open: Does management support diversity in all ways? (Q.32, 34, 45, and 55)

Cooperative: Does management encourage communication and collaboration? (Q.58 and 59)

Supportive: Do supervisors value employees? (Q.42, 46, 48, 49, and 50)

Empowering: Do employees have the resources and support needed to excel? (Q.2, 3, 11, and 30)

New IQ Index
Global Satisfaction Index 9

Global Satisfaction Index

The Global Satisfaction Index is a combination of employees’ satisfaction with their jobs, their pay, and their 

organization, plus their willingness to recommend their organization as a good place to work. Below, you can see 

where your agency’s Global Satisfaction Index score ranks (out of 42 small agencies with 10 or more respondents) 

and how it compares to the combined small agency average. The names of the highest-ranked small agencies are 

listed to facilitate the sharing of information, such as best practices. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management 

(OPM) has also created the UnlockTalent website (www.unlocktalent.gov) to share resources and help with 

interagency communication.

Global Satisfaction Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies, Combined

rank

1 93% MMC

rank

2 83% OGE, FCA, OSHRC, FMSHRC, NCPC

rank

7 81% USITC

rank

33 FEC 56%

65% Small Agencies, Combined

In addition to looking at your agency’s Global Satisfaction Index results from a combined small agencies perspective, 

the figure below allows you to compare your Global Satisfaction Index results to those from similar sized agencies. 

Appendix E contains a listing of agencies by size category for your reference.

Global Satisfaction Index Benchmarks: Small Agencies (100 – 999 employees)

rank

1 83% FCA

rank

2 81% USITC

rank

3 80% NTSB

rank

24 FEC 56%

67% Small Agencies
Global Satisfaction Index 10

Global Satisfaction Index (continued)

This table displays the Global Satisfaction index score for each component in your agency as well as the scores for 

the four items that make up the index. To provide more information on Global satisfaction, the table also includes 

trends back to 2016 for your components, as well as the combined small agency trends for comparison. Please note 

that depending on organizational structure in previous administrations, not all components may trend back to 2016.

Global Satisfaction Index Component Scores and Trends

Agency

GS Index Trends 2019 Global Satisfaction Index Items

2016 2017 2018 2019

Job 

Satisfaction

Pay 

Satisfaction

Organization 

Satisfaction

Recommend 

Organization

Small Agencies, Combined 64 66 65 65 69 64 63 66

Federal Election Commission 35 45 53 56 63 64 49 46

Office of the Staff Director (OSD) 37 47 56 57 63 66 53 46

Office of General Counsel (OGC) 32 39 48 52 63 61 41 44

Job Satisfaction: Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your job? (Q.69)

Pay Satisfaction: Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your pay? (Q.70)

Organization Satisfaction: Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your organization? (Q.71)

Recommend Organization: I recommend my organization as a good place to work. (Q.40)
11

Decision Aid: Increases

Identifying Increases Since 2018

The items in this section are sorted by greatest to smallest increase in percent positive results. The items are sorted 

to allow you to quickly and easily identify where your agency has made the greatest improvements since last year.

Using the Legend Icons

The legend icons provide context for interpreting these results. While these items have improved, some may still be 

considered challenges (35% or more negative) or others may have reached the 65% or more positive mark and become 

new strengths this year. The “Top Pos/Neg” icons highlight where an item is either in the top 10 positive items or 

top 10 negative items for your agency.

53 Items Increased Since 2018

Strength

These items are 

65 percent positive 

or higher

Caution

These items are 

30 percent neutral 

or higher

Challenge

These items are 

35 percent negative 

or higher

New Strength

These items became 

a new strength 

in 2019

Top Pos/Neg

These items are in 

your top positive 

or top negative

+

–

 

Item

2018 

Positive

2019 

Positive

2019 

Neutral

2019 

Negative

Increase 

Since 2018

Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life programs. (Q. 62) 56 69This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item became a new strength in 2019.

14 17 +13

How satisfied are you with the training you receive for your present job? (Q. 68) 51 62 13 25 +11

Policies and programs promote diversity in the workplace (for example, recruiting 

minorities and women, training in awareness of diversity issues, mentoring). (Q. 34) 40 50 24 26 +10

Managers review and evaluate the organization’s progress toward meeting its 

goals and objectives. (Q. 57) 53 63 16 22 +10

How satisfied are you with the policies and practices of your senior leaders? (Q. 66) 31 40 17 44This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+9

How satisfied are you with your opportunity to get a better job in your organization? (Q. 67) 28 36 21 43This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+8

I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways of doing things. (Q. 3) 57 64 15 21 +7

In my most recent performance appraisal, I understood what I had to do to be rated at 

different performance levels (for example, Fully Successful, Outstanding). (Q. 19) 65 72This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 10 18 +7

Promotions in my work unit are based on merit. (Q. 22) 44 51 17 33 +7

My performance appraisal is a fair reflection of my performance. (Q. 15) 69 75This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 13 12 +6

Notes: The Decision Aid only includes items 1-71. See Appendix D for a breakdown of the Work-Life results for your agency.

Decision Aid: Increases
12

Decision Aid: Increases (continued)

Item

2018

Positive

2019 

Positive

2019 

Neutral

2019 

Negative

Increase 

Since 2018

Employees are recognized for providing high quality products and services. (Q. 31) 46 52 14 34 +6

My supervisor is committed to a workforce representative of all segments of society. (Q. 45) 69 75This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 16 9 +6

Managers promote communication among different work units (for example, about 

projects, goals, needed resources). (Q. 58) 48 54 15 31 +6

My organization has prepared employees for potential security threats. (Q. 36) 57 63 18 19 +6

Discussions with my supervisor about my performance are worthwhile. (Q. 44) 68 74This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 10 16 +6

My supervisor provides me with constructive suggestions to improve my 

job performance. (Q. 46) 67 72This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 11 16 +5

My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission. (Q. 39) 37 42 15 42This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+5

How satisfied are you with your involvement in decisions that affect your work? (Q. 63) 52 57 17 25 +5

Employees have a feeling of personal empowerment with respect to work processes. (Q. 30) 39 44 15 41This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+5

Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your pay? (Q. 70) 59 64 18 18 +5

How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive for doing a good job? (Q. 65) 48 53 18 29 +5

In my work unit, differences in performance are recognized in a meaningful way. (Q. 24) 34 39 22 38This item is 35 percent negative or higher. +5

Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by the manager directly above your 

immediate supervisor? (Q. 60) 54 59 21 21 +5

My training needs are assessed. (Q. 18) 49 54 14 32 +5

Managers communicate the goals of the organization. (Q. 56) 52 57 17 26 +5

Creativity and innovation are rewarded. (Q. 32) 39 43 21 36This item is 35 percent negative or higher. +4

The skill level in my work unit has improved in the past year. (Q. 27) 54 58 27 15 +4

Managers support collaboration across work units to accomplish work objectives. (Q. 59) 55 59 17 24 +4

I have a high level of respect for my organization’s senior leaders. (Q. 61) 36 40 23 37This item is 35 percent negative or higher. +4

I know what is expected of me on the job. (Q. 6) 78 82This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

9 9 +4

Supervisors work well with employees of different backgrounds. (Q. 55) 63 67This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2019.

16 17 +4

In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels of motivation and commitment 

in the workforce. (Q. 53) 29 33 16 51This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+4

Decision Aid: Increases
13

Decision Aid: Increases (continued)

Item

2018

Positive

2019 

Positive

2019 

Neutral

2019 

Negative

Increase 

Since 2018

I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or regulation without fear 

of reprisal. (Q. 17) 55 59 18 23 +4

Supervisors in my work unit support employee development. (Q. 47) 68 72This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 8 20 +4

My supervisor supports my need to balance work and other life issues. (Q. 42) 88 92This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

5 3 +4

My supervisor provides me with opportunities to demonstrate my leadership skills. (Q. 43) 71 74This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 8 18 +3

I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in my organization. (Q. 1) 63 66This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This became a new strength in 2019.

11 23 +3

I have enough information to do my job well. (Q. 2) 69 72This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 11 17 +3

The people I work with cooperate to get the job done. (Q. 20) 79 82This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

12 6 +3

Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by your immediate supervisor? (Q. 52) 78 81This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 12 8 +3

Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your organization? (Q. 71) 47 49 16 35This item is 35 percent negative or higher. +2

In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor performer who cannot or will not 

improve. (Q. 23) 33 35 27 38This item is 35 percent negative or higher. +2

My organization’s senior leaders maintain high standards of honesty and integrity. (Q. 54) 36 38 18 45This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+2

Physical conditions (for example, noise level, temperature, lighting, cleanliness in the 

workplace) allow employees to perform their jobs well. (Q. 14) 74 76This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 11 13 +2

My talents are used well in the workplace. (Q. 11) 57 59 12 29 +2

In the last six months, my supervisor has talked with me about my performance. (Q. 50) 78 80This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 8 12 +2

My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills necessary to accomplish 

organizational goals. (Q. 29) 84 85This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

7 7 +1

Pay raises depend on how well employees perform their jobs. (Q. 33) 27 28 20 51This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+1

Employees in my work unit share job knowledge with each other. (Q. 26) 80 81This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 7 12 +1

The work I do is important. (Q. 13) 82 83This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

10 7 +1

Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your job? (Q. 69) 62 63 19 18 +1

My work unit is able to recruit people with the right skills. (Q. 21) 53 54 17 29 +1

How satisfied are you with the information you receive from management on what’s 

going on in your organization? (Q. 64) 46 47 15 39This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

+1

Decision Aid: Increases
14

Decision Aid: Decreases

Identifying Decreases Since 2018

The items in this section are sorted by greatest to smallest decrease in percent positive results. The items are sorted 

to allow you to quickly and easily identify where results have dropped since last year. 

Using the Legend Icons

The legend icons provide context for interpreting these results. When identifying the most critical decreases to focus 

on, it is important to check if these decreases are also identified as challenges (35% or more negative) or if they were 

previously identified as strengths that have fallen below the 65% or more positive threshold. The “Top Pos/Neg” 

icons highlight where an item is either in the top 10 positive items or top 10 negative items for your agency.

14 Items Decreased Since 2018

Strength

These items are 

65 percent positive 

or higher

Caution

These items are 

30 percent neutral 

or higher

Challenge

These items are 

35 percent negative 

or higher

Past Strength

These items are no 

longer a strength 

in 2019

Top Pos/Neg

These items are in 

your top positive 

or top negative

+

–

 

Item

2018 

Positive

2019 

Positive

2019 

Neutral

2019 

Negative

Decrease 

Since 2018

My workload is reasonable. (Q. 10) 68 63This item is no longer a strength in 2019. 18 19 -5

I know how my work relates to the agency’s goals. (Q. 12) 86 82This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

8 11 -4

My supervisor listens to what I have to say. (Q. 48) 86 82This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

8 10 -4

Employees are protected from health and safety hazards on the job. (Q. 35) 82 79This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 15 6 -3

I am constantly looking for ways to do my job better. (Q. 8) 85 82This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 14 5 -3

My supervisor treats me with respect. (Q. 49) 90 87This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

7 7 -3

I have sufficient resources (for example, people, materials, budget) to get my job done. (Q. 9) 60 57 13 30 -3

When needed I am willing to put in the extra effort to get a job done. (Q. 7) 97 94This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

4 2 -3

Arbitrary action, personal favoritism and coercion for partisan political purposes 

are not tolerated. (Q. 37) 46 45 16 40This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

-1

I am held accountable for achieving results. (Q. 16) 79 78This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 12 10 -1

I like the kind of work I do. (Q. 5) 79 78This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 13 9 -1

Note: The Decision Aid only includes items 1-71. See Appendix D for a breakdown of the Work-Life results for your agency.

Decision Aid: Decreases
15

Decision Aid: Decreases (continued)

Item

2018

Positive

2019 

Positive

2019 

Neutral

2019 

Negative

Decrease 

Since 2018

I have trust and confidence in my supervisor. (Q. 51) 77 76This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 11 12 -1

How would you rate the overall quality of work done by your work unit? (Q. 28) 88 87This item is 65 percent positive or higher.

This item is in your top positive.

11 2 -1

I believe the results of this survey will be used to make my agency a better place 

to work. (Q. 41) 39 38 14 48This item is 35 percent negative or higher.

This item is in your top negative.

-1

Decision Aid: Decreases
16

Decision Aid: No Change

Identifying Items That Have Not Changed Since 2018

Your percent positive results for these items have not changed since last year. These are items that your agency is 

maintaining, which can be either a positive, neutral, or negative finding. For example, an item with low percent 

positive results over several years is a strong indication of a need for focused action. You may also want to consider 

changing or updating your approach to addressing these issues if the item has been the focus of attention in the past. 

On the other hand, a trend of stable, high percent positive results is a finding that should be celebrated. Review 

each item carefully to determine whether there may be areas of concern for your agency.

Using the Legend Icons

The legend icons provide context for interpreting results. While these items have not increased or decreased, they still 

may be causes for celebration or concern depending on the percent positive, negative, and neutral results. The “Top 

Pos/Neg” icons highlight where an item is either in the top 10 positive items or top 10 negative items for your agency.

4 Items Did Not Change Since 2018

Strength

These items are 

65 percent positive 

or higher

Caution

These items are 

30 percent neutral 

or higher

Challenge

These items are 

35 percent negative 

or higher

Top Pos/Neg

These items are in 

your top positive 

or top negative

+

–

 

Item

2018 

Positive

2019 

Positive

2019 

Neutral

2019 

Negative

Change 

Since 2018

My work gives me a feeling of personal accomplishment. (Q. 4) 66 66This item is 65 percent positive or higher. 14 20 0

Awards in my work unit depend on how well employees perform their jobs. (Q. 25) 48 48 19 33 0

Prohibited Personnel Practices are not tolerated. (Q. 38) 59 59 12 30 0

I recommend my organization as a good place to work. (Q. 40) 46 46 21 33 0

Note: The Decision Aid only includes items 1-71. See Appendix D for a breakdown of the Work-Life results for your agency.

Decision Aid: No Change
17

Appendix A: Item Change Summary

Some OPM FEVS items were modified slightly in 2019 to improve the interpretation or understanding of the 

items. These changes are outlined in this section.

New Item Text (2019)

72. Currently, in my work unit poor performers usually:

• Remain in the work unit and improve their performance 

over time

• Remain in the work unit and continue to underperform

• Leave the work unit – removed or transferred

• Leave the work unit – quit

• There are no poor performers in my work unit

• Do not know

Change

New item.

Old Item Text (2018)

Not in 2018 OPM FEVS

New Item Text (2019).

73. Which of the following best describes the impact of the 

partial government shutdown (December 22, 2018 – 

January 25, 2019) on your working/pay status?

• The shutdown had no impact on my working/pay status

• I did not work and did not receive pay until after the 

lapse ended

• I worked some of the shutdown but did not receive 

pay until after the lapse ended

• I worked for the entirety of the shutdown but did not 

receive pay until after the lapse ended

• Other, not listed above

Change.

New item.

Old Item Text (2018).

Not in 2018 OPM FEVS

New Item Text (2019).

74. How was your everyday work impacted during (if you 

worked) or after the partial government shutdown?

• It had no impact

• A slightly negative impact

• A moderately negative impact

• A very negative impact

• An extremely negative impact

Change.

New item.

Old Item Text (2018).

Not in 2018 OPM FEVS

New Item Text (2019).

75. In what ways did the partial government shutdown 

negatively affect your work? (Check all that apply)

• Unmanageable workload

• Missed deadlines

• Unrecoverable loss of work 

• Reduced customer service

• Delayed work

• Reduced work quality

• Cutback of critical work 

• Time lost in restarting work

• Unmet statutory requirements 

• Other

Change.

New item.

Old Item Text (2018).

Not in 2018 OPM FEVS

Appendix A: Item Change Summary
18

Appendix A: Item Change Summary (continued)

New Item Text (2019) Change Old Item Text (2018) New Item Text (2019).

76. Are you looking for another job because of the partial 

government shutdown?

• I am looking for another job specifically because 

of the shutdown

• I am looking for another job, but the shutdown 

is only one of the reasons

• I am looking for another job, but the shutdown 

had no influence on that decision

• I am not looking for another job currently

Change.

New item.

Old Item Text (2018).

Not in 2018 OPM FEVS

New Item Text (2019).

77. My agency provided the support (e.g., communication, 

assistance, guidance) I needed during the partial 

government shutdown.

• Strongly Agree

• Agree

• Neither Agree nor Disagree

• Disagree

• Strongly Disagree

• No support required

Change.

New item.

Old Item Text (2018).

Not in 2018 OPM FEVS

New Item Text (2019).

79. How satisfied are you with the Telework program 

in your agency? 

• Very satisfied

• Satisfied

• Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied

• Dissatisfied

• Very Dissatisfied

• I choose not to participate in this program

• This program is not available to me

• I am unaware of this program

Change.

Different 

item 

text.

Old Item Text (2018).

73. How satisfied are you with the following Work/Life 

programs in your agency? Telework

• Very satisfied

• Satisfied

• Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied

• Dissatisfied

• Very Dissatisfied

• I choose not to participate in these programs

• These programs are not available to me

• I am unaware of these programs

New Item Text (2019).

80. Which of the following Work-Life programs have you 

participated in or used at your agency within the 

last 12 months? (Mark all that apply): 

• Alternative Work Schedules (for example, compressed 

work schedule, flexible work schedule)

• Health and Wellness Programs (for example, onsite 

exercise, flu vaccination, medical screening, CPR 

training, Health and wellness fair)

• Employee Assistance Program – EAP (for example, 

short-term counseling, referral services, legal services, 

information services)

• Child Care Programs (for example, child care center, 

parenting classes and support groups, back-up care, 

subsidy, flexible spending account)

• Elder Care Programs (for example, elder/adult care, 

support groups, resources)

• None listed above

Change.

New item.

Old Item Text (2018).

Not in 2018 OPM FEVS

Appendix A: Item Change Summary
19

Appendix A: Item Change Summary (continued)

New Item Text (2019) Change Old Item Text (2018) New Item Text (2019).

81-85. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life 

programs in your agency?

 81. Alternative Work Schedules (for example, 

compressed work schedule, flexible work 

schedule)

 83. Employee Assistance Program - EAP (for example, 

short-term counseling, referral services, legal 

services, information services)

 84. Child Care Programs (for example, child care 

center, parenting classes and support groups, 

back-up care, subsidy, flexible spending account)

 85. Elder Care Programs (for example, elder/adult 

care, support groups, resources)

Change.

Different 

item 

text.

Old Item Text (2018).

73-78. How satisfied are you with the following Work/Life 

programs in your agency?

 74. Alternative Work Schedules (AWS, for example, 

compressed work schedule or flexible work 

schedule)

 76. Employee Assistance Program (EAP, for 

example, short-term counseling, referral 

services, legal services, information services)

 77. Child Care Programs (for example, child care 

center, parenting classes and support groups, 

back-up care, flexible spending account)

 78. Elder Care Programs (for example, elder/adult 

care, support groups, speakers)

New Item Text (2019).

87. What is your supervisory status? 

• Senior Leader: You are the head of a department/

agency or a member of the immediate leadership 

team responsible for directing the policies and priorities 

of the department/agency. May hold either a political 

or career appointment, and typically is a member of 

the Senior Executive Service or equivalent.

• Manager: You are in a management position and 

supervise one or more supervisors.

• Supervisor: You are a first-line supervisor who is 

responsible for employees’ performance appraisals 

and leave approval.

• Team Leader: You are not an official supervisor; you 

provide employees with day-to-day guidance in work 

projects, but do not have supervisory responsibilities 

or conduct performance appraisals. 

• Non-Supervisor: You do not supervise other employees.

Change.

Response 

options 

reversed.

Old Item Text (2018).

80. What is your supervisory status?

• Non-Supervisor: You do not supervise other employees.

• Team Leader: You are not an official supervisor; you 

provide employees with day-to-day guidance in work 

projects, but do not have supervisory responsibilities 

or conduct performance appraisals. 

• Supervisor: You are a first-line supervisor who is 

responsible for employees’ performance appraisals 

and leave approval.

• Manager: You are in a management position and 

supervise one or more supervisors.

• Senior Leader: You are the head of a department/

agency or a member of the immediate leadership 

team responsible for directing the policies and 

priorities of the department/agency. May hold either 

a political or career appointment, and typically is a 

member of the Senior Executive Service or equivalent.

New Item Text (2019).

91. How long have you been with your current agency (for 

example, Department of Justice, Environmental Protection 

Agency)? 

• Less than 1 year 

• 1 to 3 years 

• 4 to 5 years 

• 6 to 10 years 

• 11 to 14 years

• 15 to 20 years 

• More than 20 years

Change.

Different 

response 

options.

Old Item Text (2018).

87. How long have you been with your current agency 

(for example, Department of Justice, Environmental 

Protection Agency)? 

• Less than 1 year 

• 1 to 3 years 

• 4 to 5 years 

• 6 to 10 years 

• 11 to 20 years 

• More than 20 years

New Item Text (2019).

94. Are you of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin? 

• Yes 

• No

Change.

Different 

item 

text.

Old Item Text (2018).

82. Are you of Hispanic or Latino?

• Yes 

• No

Appendix A: Item Change Summary
20

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks

For each item, your agency’s percent positive results are shown on a 0 to 100 scale, with the triangular arrow 

indicating where your agency falls. The gray bars represent the range of scores for the 42 small agencies surveyed 

that had 10 or more respondents. 

To understand how well your agency performed compared to other small agencies, focus on the location of the 

triangle within the gray bar. If the triangle is toward the right side of the bar, then your agency was above average 

on that item. If it is at the right edge of the bar, then you had the highest percent positive results for that item. 

Additionally, you can numerically compare your percent positive results to the combined small agency average, 

listed to the right of each item. 

My Work Experience

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 ‡1. I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills 

in my organization.

Low 41%; Your Agency 66%; High 100%.

69%

 2. I have enough information to do my job well.

Low 47%; Your Agency 72%; High 100%.

72%

 3. I feel encouraged to come up with new and better ways 

of doing things.

Low 44%; Your Agency 64%; High 100%.

63%

 4. My work gives me a feeling of personal accomplishment.

Low 59%; Your Agency 66%; High 94%.

76%

 5. I like the kind of work I do.

Low 77%; Your Agency 78%; High 100%.

85%

 6. I know what is expected of me on the job.

Low 54%; Your Agency 82%; High 100%.

79%

 7. When needed I am willing to put in the extra effort 

to get a job done.

Low 84%; Your Agency 94%; High 100%.

96%

 8. I am constantly looking for ways to do my job better.

Low 82%; Your Agency 82%; High 100%.

91%

 9. I have sufficient resources (for example, people, materials, 

budget) to get my job done.

Low 15%; Your Agency 57%; High 94%.

55%

 ‡10. My workload is reasonable.

Low 28%; Your Agency 63%; High 90%.

63%

 ‡11. My talents are used well in the workplace.

Low 33%; Your Agency 59%; High 92%.

62%

 ‡12. I know how my work relates to the agency’s goals.

Low 66%; Your Agency 82%; High 100%.

85%

66%

72%

64%

66%

78%

82%

94%

82%

57%

63%

59%

82%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks
21

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 13. The work I do is important.

Low 76%; Your Agency 83%; High 100%.

89%

 14. Physical conditions (for example, noise level, temperature, 

lighting, cleanliness in the workplace) allow employees to 

perform their jobs well.

Low 53%; Your Agency 76%; High 100%.

79%

 15. My performance appraisal is a fair reflection of my performance.

Low 52%; Your Agency 75%; High 100%.

75%

 16. I am held accountable for achieving results.

Low 59%; Your Agency 78%; High 100%.

84%

 ‡17. I can disclose a suspected violation of any law, rule or 

regulation without fear of reprisal.

Low 19%; Your Agency 59%; High 100%.

65%

 18. My training needs are assessed.

Low 22%; Your Agency 54%; High 82%.

53%

 19. In my most recent performance appraisal, I understood what 

I had to do to be rated at different performance levels (for 

example, Fully Successful, Outstanding).

Low 51%; Your Agency 72%; High 88%.

70%

83%

76%

75%

78%

59%

54%

72%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

My Work Unit

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 ‡20. The people I work with cooperate to get the job done.

Low 62%; Your Agency 82%; High 96%.

81%

 21. My work unit is able to recruit people with the right skills.

Low 16%; Your Agency 54%; High 84%.

59%

 22. Promotions in my work unit are based on merit.

Low 15%; Your Agency 51%; High 100%.

47%

 23. In my work unit, steps are taken to deal with a poor performer 

who cannot or will not improve.

Low 23%; Your Agency 35%; High 81%.

42%

 ‡24. In my work unit, differences in performance are recognized 

in a meaningful way.

Low 23%; Your Agency 39%; High 77%.

42%

 25. Awards in my work unit depend on how well employees 

perform their jobs.

Low 29%; Your Agency 48%; High 100%.

51%

82%

54%

51%

35%

39%

48%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks
22

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 26. Employees in my work unit share job knowledge with each other.

Low 53%; Your Agency 81%; High 100%.

80%

 27. The skill level in my work unit has improved in the past year.

Low 43%; Your Agency 58%; High 85%.

61%

 28. How would you rate the overall quality of work done by your 

work unit?

Low 54%; Your Agency 87%; High 100%.

88%

 ‡29. My work unit has the job-relevant knowledge and skills 

necessary to accomplish organizational goals.

Low 70%; Your Agency 85%; High 100%.

85%

81%

58%

87%

85%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

My Agency

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 30. Employees have a feeling of personal empowerment 

with respect to work processes.

Low 21%; Your Agency 44%; High 100%.

49%

 31. Employees are recognized for providing high quality products 

and services.

Low 19%; Your Agency 52%; High 100%.

55%

 32. Creativity and innovation are rewarded.

Low 18%; Your Agency 43%; High 100%.

45%

 33. Pay raises depend on how well employees perform their jobs.

Low 10%; Your Agency 28%; High 100%.

32%

 34. Policies and programs promote diversity in the 

workplace (for example, recruiting minorities and women, 

training in awareness of diversity issues, mentoring).

Low 31%; Your Agency 50%; High 82%.

57%

 35. Employees are protected from health and safety hazards 

on the job.

Low 24%; Your Agency 79%; High 100%.

82%

 36. My organization has prepared employees for potential 

security threats.

Low 53%; Your Agency 63%; High 100%.

74%

 37. Arbitrary action, personal favoritism and coercion for partisan 

political purposes are not tolerated.

Low 29%; Your Agency 45%; High 95%.

55%

44%

52%

43%

28%

50%

79%

63%

45%

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks
23

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 38. Prohibited Personnel Practices are not tolerated.

Low 38%; Your Agency 59%; High 100%.

68%

 39. My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission.

Low 41%; Your Agency 42%; High 100%.

76%

 ‡40. I recommend my organization as a good place to work.

Low 32%; Your Agency 46%; High 100%.

66%

 ‡41. I believe the results of this survey will be used to make 

my agency a better place to work.

Low 22%; Your Agency 38%; High 92%.

49%

59%

42%

46%

38%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

My Supervisor

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 42. My supervisor supports my need to balance work and other 

life issues.

Low 60%; Your Agency 92%; High 97%.

87%

 43. My supervisor provides me with opportunities to demonstrate 

my leadership skills.

Low 46%; Your Agency 74%; High 100%.

74%

 44. Discussions with my supervisor about my performance 

are worthwhile.

Low 41%; Your Agency 74%; High 85%.

69%

 45. My supervisor is committed to a workforce representative 

of all segments of society.

Low 49%; Your Agency 75%; High 100%.

75%

 46. My supervisor provides me with constructive suggestions to 

improve my job performance.

Low 41%; Your Agency 72%; High 96%.

69%

 47. Supervisors in my work unit support employee development.

Low 48%; Your Agency 72%; High 100%.

75%

 48. My supervisor listens to what I have to say.

Low 54%; Your Agency 82%; High 100%.

83%

 49. My supervisor treats me with respect.

Low 62%; Your Agency 87%; High 100%.

85%

 50. In the last six months, my supervisor has talked with me 

about my performance.

Low 40%; Your Agency 80%; High 100%.

84%

92%

74%

74%

75%

72%

72%

82%

87%

80%

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks
24

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 51. I have trust and confidence in my supervisor.

Low 40%; Your Agency 76%; High 100%.

74%

 52. Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by your 

immediate supervisor?

Low 46%; Your Agency 81%; High 100%.

77%

76%

81%

Leadership

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 53. In my organization, senior leaders generate high levels of 

motivation and commitment in the workforce.

Low 19%; Your Agency 33%; High 89%.

44%

 54. My organization's senior leaders maintain high standards of 

honesty and integrity.

Low 19%; Your Agency 38%; High 100%.

54%

 55. Supervisors work well with employees of different backgrounds.

Low 48%; Your Agency 67%; High 100%.

69%

 ‡56. Managers communicate the goals of the organization.

Low 41%; Your Agency 57%; High 100%.

62%

 57. Managers review and evaluate the organization's progress 

toward meeting its goals and objectives.

Low 38%; Your Agency 63%; High 92%.

61%

 58. Managers promote communication among different work units 

(for example, about projects, goals, needed resources).

Low 28%; Your Agency 54%; High 92%.

55%

 59. Managers support collaboration across work units to 

accomplish work objectives.

Low 28%; Your Agency 59%; High 100%.

59%

 60. Overall, how good a job do you feel is being done by 

the manager directly above your immediate supervisor?

Low 29%; Your Agency 59%; High 100%.

63%

 61. I have a high level of respect for my organization's senior leaders.

Low 17%; Your Agency 40%; High 100%.

53%

 62. Senior leaders demonstrate support for Work-Life programs.

Low 29%; Your Agency 69%; High 100%.

63%

33%

38%

67%

57%

63%

54%

59%

59%

40%

69%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks
25

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

My Satisfaction

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 ‡63. How satisfied are you with your involvement in decisions 

that affect your work?

Low 22%; Your Agency 57%; High 92%.

56%

 ‡64. How satisfied are you with the information you receive from 

management on what's going on in your organization?

Low 22%; Your Agency 47%; High 100%.

53%

 ‡65. How satisfied are you with the recognition you receive 

for doing a good job?

Low 23%; Your Agency 53%; High 89%.

56%

 66. How satisfied are you with the policies and practices of your 

senior leaders?

Low 18%; Your Agency 40%; High 89%.

46%

 67. How satisfied are you with your opportunity to get a better 

job in your organization?

Low 11%; Your Agency 36%; High 65%.

36%

 68. How satisfied are you with the training you receive for your 

present job?

Low 11%; Your Agency 62%; High 82%.

56%

 ‡69. Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your job?

Low 41%; Your Agency 63%; High 96%.

69%

 70. Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your pay?

Low 19%; Your Agency 64%; High 90%.

64%

 ‡71. Considering everything, how satisfied are you with your 

organization?

Low 16%; Your Agency 49%; High 100%.

63%

57%

47%

53%

40%

36%

62%

63%

64%

49%

Note: Items included on the Annual Employee Survey are noted by a double dagger (‡).

Performance

Item

2019 

Agency

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 72. Currently, in my work unit poor performers usually:

Remain in the work unit and improve their performance over time 17% 17%

Remain in the work unit and continue to underperform 53% 43%

Leave the work unit - removed or transferred 11% 9%

Leave the work unit - quit 3% 4%

There are no poor performers in my work unit 16% 27%

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks
26

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks (continued)

Partial Government Shutdown

 73 - 77. (See Appendix C)

Work-Life Programs

0 Low High 100

FEC

Item

Item Benchmarks

2019 Small 

Agencies, 

Combined

 78. Please select the response below that BEST describes your current teleworking schedule. (See Appendix D)

 79. How satisfied are you with the Telework program in your agency? 

Low 0%; Your Agency 79%; High 100%.

71%

 80. Which of the following Work-Life programs have you participated in or used at your agency within the last 12 months? (See Appendix D) 

 81 - 85. How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? 

 81. Alternative Work Schedules (for example, compressed 

work schedule, flexible work schedule)

Low 34%; Your Agency 81%; High 100%.

81%

 82. Health and Wellness Programs (for example, onsite exercise, 

flu vaccination, medical screening, CPR Training, health and 

wellness fair)

Low 16%; Your Agency 76%; High 100%.

72%

 83. Employee Assistance Program– EAP (for example, short-term 

counseling, referral services, legal services, information services)

Low 25%; Your Agency 49%; High 86%.

48%

 84. Child Care Programs (for example, child care center, 

parenting classes and support groups, back-up care, 

subsidy, flexible spending account)

Low 0%; Your Agency 29%; High 100%.

33%

 85. Elder Care Programs (for example, elder/adult care, support 

groups, resources)

Low 0%; Your Agency 31%; High 63%.

23%

79%

81%

76%

49%

29%

31%

Appendix B: Item Results and Benchmarks
27

Appendix C: Partial Government Shutdown Results

Several items addressing the 2018-2019 partial government shutdown were added to the 2019 OPM FEVS to provide 

agencies with the opportunity to assess how the partial government shutdown may have impacted employees. Your 

agency’s results are listed in this section. 

Partial Government Shutdown Results

 Item

2019 

Percentages

73. Which of the following best describes the impact of the partial government shutdown (December 22, 2018 – January 25, 2019) 

on your working/pay status?

The shutdown had no impact on my working/pay status 5

I did not work and did not receive pay until after the lapse ended 80

I worked some of the shutdown but did not receive pay until after the lapse ended 4

I worked for the entirety of the shutdown but did not receive pay until after the lapse ended 8

Other, not listed above 2

74. How was your everyday work impacted during (if you worked) or after the partial government shutdown?

It had no impact 13

A slightly negative impact 14

A moderately negative impact 30

A very negative impact 26

An extremely negative impact 17

75. In what ways did the partial government shutdown negatively affect your work? (Check all that apply)

Unmanageable workload 46

Missed deadlines 76

Unrecoverable loss of work 20

Reduced customer service 41

Delayed work 82

Reduced work quality 21

Cutback of critical work 12

Time lost in restarting work 68

Unmet statutory requirements 20

Other 15

If the response to item 74 was “It had no impact,” item 75 was skipped. Percents will add to more than 100% because respondents could choose more than one 

response option.

Note: The 2018-2019 partial government shutdown lasted 35 days from December 22, 2018 through January 25, 2019. 

The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix C: Partial Government Shutdown Results
28

Appendix C: Partial Government Shutdown Results (continued)

Item

2019

Percentages

76. Are you looking for another job because of the partial government shutdown?

I am looking for another job specifically because of the shutdown 2

I am looking for another job, but the shutdown is only one of the reasons 14

I am looking for another job, but the shutdown had no influence on that decision 14

I am not looking for another job currently 70

77. My agency provided the support (e.g., communication, assistance, guidance) I needed during the partial government shutdown.

Strongly Agree 47

Agree 38

Neither Agree nor Disagree 10

Disagree 5

Strongly Disagree 1

Note: The 2018-2019 partial government shutdown lasted 35 days from December 22, 2018 through January 25, 2019. 

The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix C: Partial Government Shutdown Results
29

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results

Appendix D displays more detailed Work-Life Program results for your agency. It also includes a more detailed look 

than the reported snapshot of the demographic characteristics of your agency’s survey respondents. Use the Work-Life 

results to gain an understanding of how your Work-Life Programs are used and rated. The demographic results can be 

useful in planning, recruiting, and training activities in your agency.

Telework Schedule

 

Item

2019 

Percentages

Please select the response below that BEST describes your current teleworking schedule.

I telework very infrequently, on an unscheduled or short-term basis 13

I telework, but only about 1 or 2 days per month 8

I telework 1 or 2 days per week 61

I telework 3 or 4 days per week 3

I telework every work day 0

I do not telework because I have to be physically present on the job (e.g. Law Enforcement Officers, Park Rangers, Security Personnel) 3

I do not telework because of technical issues (e.g. connectivity, inadequate equipment) that prevent me from teleworking 0

I do not telework because I did not receive approval to do so, even though I have the kind of job where I can telework 5

I do not telework because I choose not to telework 8

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Telework Satisfaction

 

Item

% 

Satisfaction

% 

All Responses

How satisfied are you with the Telework program in your agency?

Very Satisfied 38 34

Satisfied 41 37

Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied 5 4

Dissatisfied 12 11

Very Dissatisfied 4 4

Item Response Total 100 90

I choose not to participate in this program — 6

This program is not available to me — 4

I am unaware of this program — 0

Total 100 100

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results
30

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results (continued)

Work-Life Program Participation

 

Item

2019 

Percentages

Which of the following Work-Life programs have you participated in or used at your agency within the last 12 months? 

(Mark all that apply):

Alternative Work Schedules 54

Health and Wellness Programs 32

Employee Assistance Program – EAP 6

Child Care Programs 1

Elder Care Programs 0

None listed above 33

Note: Percents will add to more than 100% because respondents could choose more than one response option.

Work-Life Program Satisfaction

 

Item

% 

Satisfaction

% 

All Responses

How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Alternative Work Schedules 

(for example, compressed work schedule, flexible work schedule)

Very Satisfied 44 32

Satisfied 37 27

Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied 14 10

Dissatisfied 3 2

Very Dissatisfied 2 2

Item Response Total 100 73

I choose not to participate in these programs — 15

These programs are not available to me — 11

I am unaware of these programs — 1

Total 100 100

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results
31

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results (continued)

Item

% 

Satisfaction

% 

All Responses

How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Health and Wellness Programs 

(for example, onsite exercise, flu vaccination, medical screening, CPR training, health and wellness fair)

Very Satisfied 23 18

Satisfied 53 42

Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied 20 15

Dissatisfied 3 3

Very Dissatisfied 1 1

Item Response Total 100 78

I choose not to participate in these programs — 20

These programs are not available to me — 1

I am unaware of these programs — 2

Total 100 100

How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Employee Assistance 

Program-EAP (for example, short-term counseling, referral services, legal services, information services)

Very Satisfied 19 10

Satisfied 29 15

Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied 50 25

Dissatisfied 1 1

Very Dissatisfied 0 0

Item Response Total 100 50

I choose not to participate in these programs — 42

These programs are not available to me — 0

I am unaware of these programs — 8

Total 100 100

How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Child Care Programs 

(for example, child care center, parenting classes and support groups, back-up care, subsidy, flexible spending account)

Very Satisfied 13 3

Satisfied 15 4

Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied 66 16

Dissatisfied 2 1

Very Dissatisfied 3 1

Item Response Total 100 24

I choose not to participate in these programs — 29

These programs are not available to me — 30

I am unaware of these programs — 18

Total 100 100

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results
32

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results (continued)

Item

% 

Satisfaction

% 

All Responses

How satisfied are you with the following Work-Life programs in your agency? Elder Care Programs 

(for example, elder/adult care, support groups, resources)

Very Satisfied 18 4

Satisfied 13 3

Neither Satisfied nor Dissatisfied 63 14

Dissatisfied 6 1

Very Dissatisfied 0 0

Item Response Total 100 23

I choose not to participate in these programs — 26

These programs are not available to me — 27

I am unaware of these programs — 25

Total 100 100

Note: The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

My Employment Demographics

 

Item

2019 

Percentages

Where do you work?

Headquarters 99

Field 1

 What is your supervisory status?

Senior Leader 4

Manager 7

Supervisor 11

Team Leader 11

Non-Supervisor 67

What is your pay category/grade?

Federal Wage System 0

GS 1-6 0

GS 7-12 34

GS 13-15 60

Senior Executive Service 0

Senior Level (SL) or Scientific or Professional (ST) 5

Other 1

Note: Demographic results are unweighted. The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results
33

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results (continued)

Item

2019

Percentages

What is your US military service status?

No Prior Military Service 94

Currently in National Guard or Reserves 0

Retired 1

Separated or Discharged 4

How long have you been with the Federal Government (excluding military service)?

Less than 1 year 0

1 to 3 years 9

4 to 5 years 9

6 to 10 years 15

11 to 14 years 19

15 to 20 years 17

More than 20 years 32

 How long have you been with your current agency (for example, Department of Justice, Environmental Protection Agency)?

Less than 1 year 0

1 to 3 years 15

4 to 5 years 8

6 to 10 years 15

11 to 14 years 17

15 to 20 years 23

More than 20 years 22

 Are you considering leaving your organization within the next year, and if so, why?

No 64

Yes, to retire 5

Yes, to take another job within the Federal Government 19

Yes, to take another job outside the Federal Government 8

Yes, other 4

 I am planning to retire:

Within one year 3

Between one and three years 6

Between three and five years 6

Five or more years 84

Note: Demographic results are unweighted. The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding.

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results
34

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results (continued)

My Personal Demographics

 

Item

2019 

Percentages

 Are you of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin?

Yes 9

No 91

Are you:

White 70

Black or African American 20

All other races 10

What is your age group?

29 years and under 4

30-39 years old 31

40-49 years old 22

50-59 years old 34

60 years or older 10

What is the highest degree or level of education you have completed?

Less than High School/ High School Diploma/ GED —

Certification/ Some College/ Associate’s Degree —

Bachelor’s Degree —

Advanced Degrees (Post Bachelor’s Degree) —

Are you an individual with a disability? 

Yes 6

No 94

Are you:

Male 46

Female 54

Are you transgender?

Yes —

No —

Which one of the following do you consider yourself to be?

Straight, that is not gay or lesbian —

Gay or Lesbian —

Bisexual —

Something else —

Note: Demographic results are unweighted. The sum of percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding. For confidentiality purposes, if there are fewer than 4 responses to 

a single personal demographic category, all results for that question are suppressed. If there are fewer than 4 responses in multiple personal demographic categories, only 

those are suppressed, and remaining data are displayed.

Appendix D: Work-Life Programs & Demographic Results
35

Appendix E: Participating Agencies 

by Employee Population Size Categories

Very Large Agencies ( > 75,000 employees)

Department of Agriculture

Department of Defense

 Department of the Army

 Department of the Navy

 Department of the Air Force

 OSD, Joint Staff, Defense Agencies, and Field Activities (DOD 4th Estate)

Department of Health and Human Services

Department of Homeland Security

Department of Justice

Department of the Treasury

Large Agencies (10,000 – 74,999 employees)

Department of Commerce

Department of Energy

Department of Labor

Department of State

Department of the Interior

Department of Transportation

Environmental Protection Agency

General Services Administration

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Social Security Administration

Medium Agencies (1,000 – 9,999 employees)

Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency 

Department of Education

Department of Housing and Urban Development

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Federal Communications Commission

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Federal Trade Commission

National Archives and Records Administration

National Credit Union Administration

National Labor Relations Board

National Science Foundation

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Office of Personnel Management

Securities and Exchange Commission

Small Business Administration

U.S. Agency for Global Media

U.S. Agency for International Development

Small Agencies (100 – 999 employees)

Commodity Futures Trading Commission

Consumer Product Safety Commission

Corporation for National and Community Service

Export-Import Bank of the United States

Farm Credit Administration

Federal Election Commission

Federal Housing Finance Agency

Federal Labor Relations Authority

Federal Maritime Commission

Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service

Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board

International Boundary and Water Commission

Merit Systems Protection Board

National Endowment for the Arts

National Endowment for the Humanities

National Gallery of Art

National Indian Gaming Commission

National Transportation Safety Board

Office of Management and Budget

Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

Overseas Private Investment Corporation

Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation

Railroad Retirement Board

Selective Service System

Surface Transportation Board

U.S. International Trade Commission

U.S. Office of Special Counsel

Very Small Agencies (< 100 employees)

AbilityOne Commission

African Development Foundation

American Battle Monuments Commission

Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board

Commission on Civil Rights

Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board

Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation

Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission

Institute of Museum and Library Services

Inter-American Foundation

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Marine Mammal Commission

National Capital Planning Commission

National Mediation Board

Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission

Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation

Postal Regulatory Commission

U.S. Access Board

U.S. Office of Government Ethics

U.S. Trade and Development Agency

Note: All agencies listed in the Small and Very Small categories make up the Small Agencies, Combined benchmark category, with the exception of the Office of Management 

and Budget, Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, and Railroad Retirement Board.

Appendix E: Participating Agencies by Employee Population Size Categories
United States 

Office of Personnel Management 

Office of Strategy and Innovation

1900 E Street, NW 

Washington, DC 20415

www.opm.gov/FEVS