Since the BLS Strategic Plan is based on the achievement of individual program and support area plans, no new information activities are required for the achievement and measurement of the strategic goals. The BLS will make the plan accessible through its internal and external Web sites soon after completion. The accomplishment of the strategic goals and objectives is partly dependent on external factors over which the BLS has limited control. Within the strategic plan, however, the BLS addresses many of these factors in order to better position the Bureau to respond to changes in circumstances. The rapid change in the economy is an important factor affecting the Bureau's work.
Economic change translates directly into new demands for data.
Being in tune with customers' changing needs while keeping within a limited budget may affect the accomplishment of the strategic goals and objectives. A second factor is the outlook for changing resources in the years ahead. This requires the BLS to prioritize services and products across the whole organization, standardize technology where possible, manage for results, and be acutely aware of customers' needs. A third external factor concerns staffing the organization. The BLS must be able to hire and retain highly qualified staff.