Wednesday, October 12, 2005

Personnel Problems

In response to this petition drive, I wrote:
Competent bureaucracies are essential tools for dealing with the complexities of modern life. But they only function if those who are in a position understand and can carry out the duties of that position.

Despite what MBA programs have been selling for years, management skills are not interchangeable. Or perhaps it's more accurate to say that people-management skills are interchangeable, but not sufficient qualification for all management positions.
Or to put it another way, the difference between a competent bureaucracy and a feudal aristocracy is relevant qualifications and accountability.

Update: Yes, this applies to the Park Service too!

Update: And, given how bad our disaster relief is, it goes double for refugee aid!

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