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Due to the overwhelming success of the REDRESS program, mediation will be expanded to the formal complaint process. Under this expansion, mediation will be offered to those employees who have filed a formal complaint of discrimination. The expansion of the mediation program will ultimately reduce investigative costs as well as the number of cases that proceed to hearing. EEO professionals will also be challenged to find alternative means to bring parties together outside of mediation. This renewed focus on early dispute resolution positions the EEO function to continue to reduce formal complaints with a target reduction of 20 percent by 2010.
Outsourcing of the EEO investigations has significantly reduced operating costs, addressed quality and timeliness issues, and completely eliminated the backlog of investigations. This process has been cited by other federal agencies as a best practice. The Postal Service will continue to look for additional opportunities to streamline processes and identify proactive approaches to reduce future complaints.
Fostering an Inclusive Environment
Serving as a champion of diversity has played a major role in the Postal Service's ability to provide excellent service to all Americans. The uniqueness of all employees is valued, and the Postal Service will continue to seek out and develop the talents and skills that each individual brings to the organization. As evidence of this commitment, the Postal Service has been recognized by Fortune magazine as one of "50 Best Companies for Minorities" in 2005 for the fifth straight year, and Equal Opportunity Publications, Inc. ranked the Postal Service as one of the top 20 government agencies for individuals with disabilities. In addition the Postal Service received the outstanding employer award from Careers and the DisABLED magazine.
The Postal Service not only wants to be considered the best employer in government, but the best employer overall. For over 200 years, people representing a diverse pool of individuals, with diverse cultures, beliefs, and perspectives built the Postal Service. Building on this legacy of diversity, the Postal Service will further expand recruitment efforts to women and minorities for key technical and managerial positions and continue to promote workplace practices that provide opportunities for the best and brightest talent available. Employees will be provided with the tools and knowledge needed to do their jobs today and prepare them for the leadership challenges of tomorrow.