Merit System Objectives and Realities

T HE effective administration of the various grant-in-aid programs for welfare, health, and employment security has been recognized by the States and by the Congress to depend, in substantial measure, on the quality of personnel administration in these programs. The merit system applying to the programs is designed to promote emciency through a plan for selection and development of the best available staff, weeding out the incompetent and promoting the outstanding. It serves also as an instrument of democratic government by affording citizens the opportunity for a career in the public service on the basis of their qualifications and performance. Effective personnel administration is not achieved by establishing an organizational structure, but only through the continuing and resourceful day-to-day application of sound principles and practical techniques. The functioning of a system over a period of years offers an opportunity to consider its achievements and deficiencies in terms of actual operation.