nomical program operations. The purpose of 

 program appraisal is not solely to unearth 

 shortcomings of programs or personnel. But 

 it is necessary to locate and define deficiencies 

 and problems so that all of the Division's facili- 

 ties may be utilized to correct them. 



During program appraisal at a station, con- 

 siderable time is spent with the Veterinarian 

 in Charge. Each program is reviewed to de- 

 lineate problems and to reassess objectives and 

 goals. 



Another important aspect of program ap- 

 praisal is a determination of the cooperative 

 relationship existing between Federal and 

 State offices and the amount of support being 

 given by farm and livestock organizations. 



Other areas that are reviewed at the station 

 level include work organization and planning, 

 utilization of personnel, policies and proce- 

 dures, training programs, funds, and records. 



Usually a week is spent at each station with 

 the time divided equally between office and 

 field. 



What it gives 



With a variety of programs, a decentralized 

 organization involving some 50 stations, and 

 the fact that because of their cooperative na- 

 ture programs vary from station to station, 

 management must be informed of what is go- 

 ing on at the point of operation. This service 

 is provided by program appraisal. 



Another benefit is the location of deficiencies 

 before they become the object of criticism by 

 people outside of the organization. 



Program appraisal is not a one-way eff"ort 

 concerned only with attempting to find defi- 

 ciencies at the field level. It also tries to find 

 problems, which, because local conditions make 

 regulations unworkable, are handicapping field 

 operations. By defining such problems, correc- 

 tive action can be taken that will help make a 

 smoother and more efficient operation. 



Frequently, a station has devised an efficient 

 method of performing some particular func- 

 tion. This information often is useful in other 

 States. Program appraisal is a means of find- 

 ing such procedures and passing on the infor- 

 mation so that other States mav benefit. 



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