VA is committed to open, accurate, and timely communication with veterans, employees, and external stakeholders. We listen to their concerns to bring about improvements in the benefits and services we provide. The FY 2001 Performance Plan represents the roadmap that will guide the day-to-day operations and activities of VA staff around the country. This plan identifies strategic goals, objectives, and performance goals specifically focusing on VA’s key organizational performance goals. For this to be an effective management tool, however, the plan must be communicated to, and understood by, veterans, VA employees, and stakeholders.

After the FY 2001 Performance Plan is published, we will use a combination of techniques to ensure it is communicated. Specifically, staff will be informed through our electronic mail system; through a short flyer; in VA’s publication, VAnguard; and, in the Office of Financial Management Bulletin. A press release will be issued to the general public informing them of the Performance Plan’s availability. Upon publication, access to the Performance Plan will be made available through VA’s Internet website.

Achievement of goals and levels of performance will partly hinge on the awareness and understanding of what is expected of employees in FY 2001. The purpose of the One VA Conferences is to expose participants to successful experiences in improving customer service through inter-organizational initiatives and then have the teams develop action plans to implement One VA initiatives at the local level. The conferences will bring senior leaders, middle managers and first-line employees together with union representatives and veterans service organization members in an effort to accelerate development of a One VA corporate culture.