What must federal agencies avoid in their operations?

Federal agencies must avoid discrimination based on personal identity to ensure equitable treatment and access to opportunities for all individuals. This principle is rooted in various laws and regulations designed to promote fairness, such as the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines. By preventing discrimination, federal agencies not only uphold legal standards but also foster a diverse and inclusive work environment that values different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. Promoting diversity can enhance the agency's effectiveness by bringing various viewpoints and fostering creativity and innovation in problem-solving and operational strategies.

In contrast, hiring based on qualifications alone, while important for selecting capable personnel, is not inherently problematic. Minimizing operational costs is often a legitimate objective for agencies looking to use taxpayer money judiciously, and encouraging feedback from employees is typically viewed as a positive practice that promotes engagement and improvement within the organization.