Make applying on the web even easier and more secure. OSFA should work with the Department to find a new name, one that preserves the tradition of helping to put America through school and celebrates the new dedication to service, partnership, and financial responsibility. That would satisfy many customers and allow OSFA to save money on collections. A central theme of several recommendations is to concentrate less on process and more on results. Another theme is to involve customers and partners in a regulatory reform effort.
Public involvement is necessary for any regulatory change.
Common sense also dictates quick correction of the few schools that are way out of line due to incompetence or fraud. ED is already working on Voluntary Flexible Agreements with guaranty agencies to focus on results. Repeatedly in surveys, federal employees say that government does a bad job of dealing with poor performers. Clear mission, goals, and incentives should solve most of the problem. If necessary, OSFA will ask the Secretary to seek additional legislative authority.