GPRA

Term from Public Administration industry explained for recruiters

GPRA (Government Performance and Results Act) is a law that helps government agencies work better by making them set clear goals and measure their success. Think of it like a report card for government programs. Created in 1993, it requires federal agencies to create strategic plans, set measurable targets, and report on their progress. It's similar to how businesses track their success, but for government work. When you see this on a resume, it usually means the person has experience with government planning, measuring program success, or reporting results.

Examples in Resumes

Led team compliance with GPRA requirements for agency's five-year strategic plan

Developed performance metrics aligned with GPRA and GPRAMA standards

Created quarterly GPRA reports tracking program outcomes and success measures

Typical job title: "Performance Management Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Program Analyst Performance Analyst Strategic Planning Specialist Government Program Manager Federal Program Coordinator Policy Analyst Performance Management Specialist

Where to Find Performance Management Specialists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you lead a strategic planning process to meet GPRA requirements?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience coordinating across departments, setting measurable goals, involving stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with federal requirements while maintaining practical implementation strategies.

Q: Describe a situation where you had to revise performance metrics to better align with agency goals.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to evaluate effectiveness of existing measures, work with leadership to develop new metrics, and implement changes while maintaining reporting continuity.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure data quality in GPRA reporting?

Expected Answer: Should explain processes for data collection, verification methods, maintaining documentation, and coordinating with program staff to ensure accurate reporting.

Q: What steps do you take to develop meaningful performance measures?

Expected Answer: Should discuss working with program staff, understanding program goals, ensuring measures are realistic and meaningful, and aligning with agency mission.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the main components of a GPRA report?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify basic elements like strategic goals, performance measures, targets, and actual results.

Q: How do you collect data for performance reporting?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic data collection methods, working with program staff, and standard reporting templates.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of GPRA requirements
  • Data collection and reporting
  • Basic performance measurement concepts
  • Report writing

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Performance measure development
  • Strategic planning participation
  • Data analysis and visualization
  • Stakeholder coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic planning leadership
  • Performance management system design
  • Cross-agency coordination
  • Policy development and implementation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No federal government experience
  • Lack of performance measurement knowledge
  • No experience with data analysis or reporting
  • Unable to explain basic GPRA requirements
  • No strategic planning experience