Casework Skills Test Question 60 – Challenging an unsafe backlog tracking request
On this page
Practice focus: Data minimisation, management instructions and safe alternatives
Difficulty: Hard
Scenario
A manager asks the team to copy customer names, dates of birth, addresses, case details and reasons for delay into a shared spreadsheet so senior leaders can monitor the backlog. The spreadsheet is on a drive open to a much wider group than the case team. Policy says case information should remain in the case system, and any temporary tracker must use the minimum data required with restricted access and approval.
Rate the actions
For each action, choose Counterproductive, Ineffective, Fairly Effective or Effective.
Action A
Refuse to use the spreadsheet, tell colleagues it is probably illegal and take no further action.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Action B
Create a temporary restricted tracker using case numbers and delay categories only, while seeking formal approval and a longer-term system report.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Action C
Explain the policy risk, propose a report from the case system or an approved restricted tracker using case numbers and minimal fields, and ask for the final approach to be recorded.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Action D
Complete the spreadsheet as requested because the instruction came from the manager responsible for the backlog.
Rate this action:
Counterproductive Ineffective Fairly Effective Effective
Click to reveal the answer
| Action | Correct rating |
|---|---|
| Action A | Ineffective |
| Action B | Fairly Effective |
| Action C | Effective |
| Action D | Counterproductive |
Members can unlock the full explanation for all four actions, including how evidence, fairness, confidentiality, customer impact and authority affect each rating.
Join our careers service to read more...
If everyone knew the best tricks and tips then they would no longer work! That is why the best guidance is for members only.
Subscribe to open the locked section on this page and get access to the full Civil Service Careers premium library.
Get help with applications, interviews, behaviours, personal statements, CVs, tests, workplace problems, promotions, and career decisions, all written for people who want a better result.
Already subscribed? Log in