This assignment is the first of four in the course that will focus on different aspects of a single public agency of your choice. Each assignment builds upon the foundation of the previous assignment and feedback from your instructor will be included in each submission.

Overview

Assume the role of a consultant who works for a consulting firm that has asked you to research this agency and file a report with the vice president of public programs and client support. This report will be reviewed by the VP as well as by the leaders of the agency for whom you are working.

Write a 6–8 page paper (including title and reference page), titled Part 1: Rationale and Analysis for the [Selected Agency], in which you separate the content into the following sections:

• Introduction.
• Functions of the Agency.
• Rationale.
• Analysis of the Selected Agency. Develop an in-depth analysis of the selected agency’s planning, organizational design, and implementation, and then provide recommendations for improvement. Research related academic sources, the agency’s website, or a relevant government website.
• Analysis of Policy Implementation.
• Recommendations for Planning and Implementation.
• References.

Agency Selection: Select an agency either from the list below or your own choice of a public agency. Before selecting an agency ensure the agency (or department) is structured to meet the expectations of all the assignments in the course. For public agency selection recommendations, review these websites:

• USA.govLinks to an external site..
• A–Z Index of U.S. Government Departments and AgenciesLinks to an external site..
• U.S. Office of Personnel ManagementLinks to an external site..
• The Nonprofit TimesLinks to an external site..
• NGO AdvisorLinks to an external site..
• City, county, or state governments: Local GovernmentsLinks to an external site..

Instructions

1. Explain the rationale for selecting the agency by providing background information about the agency or department, its mission, goals, and objectives. 
   • This will go into the section titled Introduction.
2. Describe at least two functions of this agency.
3. Analyze two major milestones, (internal or external), affecting the agency's success and one result of the effectiveness of the agency's planning, or implementation functions.
   • Cite a current event that illustrates the achievement of at least one of the major milestones
4. Analyze two possible causes (internal or external) that appear to have the effect of impeding the organization's implementation of its policy and meeting its goals and objectives.
   • Cite a current event that illustrates how the organization’s implementation was impeded.
5. Recommend one strategy (from the previous criterion) that the agency could implement to improve its effectiveness in the areas of planning, organization, and implementation.
   • Support the recommendation with an explanation.
6. Use at least two quality sources to support your writing. Choose sources that are credible, relevant, and appropriate. Cite each source listed on your source page at least one time within your assignment. Include no more than one nongovernment website.
   • For help with research, writing, and citation, access the library or review library guides.
7. Produce writing that is clear and well organized and applies appropriate SWS style. Writing contains accurate grammar, mechanics, and spelling.

This course requires the use of Strayer Writing Standards (SWS). The library is your home for SWS assistance, including citations and formatting. Please refer to the Library site for all support. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.

The specific course learning outcome associated with this assignment is:

• Conduct an initial analysis of an agency, including its history, organizational design, and effectiveness in planning and implementation activities.