What is the primary purpose of progressive discipline according to OIG recommendations?

The primary purpose of progressive discipline, as outlined by OIG recommendations, is to provide a structured approach to fair disciplinary actions. This structured method allows for an incremental response to employee misconduct or performance issues, ensuring that discipline is applied consistently and fairly. It typically involves a series of steps or stages, starting with less severe consequences and escalating to more serious measures if the behavior does not improve.

This approach not only helps to maintain a fair work environment but also gives employees the opportunity to correct their behavior before facing more stringent consequences. By implementing progressive discipline, organizations can foster a culture of accountability while still adhering to legal and ethical standards, ultimately promoting compliance with regulations and policies.

While compliance with federal laws and documentation of employee performance are certainly important aspects of an organization's policies, they are not the primary focus of progressive discipline. Instead, the emphasis is on creating a fair and transparent process for managing employee behavior, which helps in building trust and supporting overall workplace integrity.