U.S. Office of Personnel Management - Ensuring the Federal Government has an effective civilian workforce

Impact of Automation

Automation greatly affects the way equipment, facilities, and services work is accomplished.  Specialists use computers to perform a wide variety of tasks.  They:

• initiate and track multiple projects;
• obtain up-to-date data;
• generate reports;
• input, store, and retrieve data in multiple formats; and
• use the Web to search for information pertaining to assignments.

Although specialists use computers to perform basic work processes, knowledge of the rules and processes in performing the work remains the paramount subject matter knowledge required.  The kind of automation tools involved, and the skill required to use them, generally replace or supplement work methods and techniques previously performed through manual or machine-enhanced processes.  These positions may require knowledge of the applications of information technology (IT) to the assignment area and skill in the use of IT software and hardware systems, but the positions are not directly involved in developing, delivering, or supporting IT systems, applications, and services.   In many cases, an employee with advanced knowledge and skill in the use of IT systems may be regarded as the IT “expert” in the immediate organization and relied upon by other employees for limited technical advice and assistance in applying IT systems to the assignment area.  Although computers are used to facilitate work within this job family, the use of automation does not change the primary purpose of the work.  Proper classification of positions within this and other administrative occupations is based on the relevant knowledge and skills required to perform the primary duties of the position–in this instance, those duties related to equipment, facilities, and services.