The information provided in this Handbook is designed to provide guidance for implementing the Department of the Interior (Department) Merit Promotion Plan (Plan) (370 DM 335). The Plan contains the key principles of the Federal merit promotion policy, as implemented by the Department. Bureaus may use this Handbook to implement the Department's Plan. Bureaus may want to set specific operational procedures where flexibilities and discretionary actions are allowed, and must ensure that such procedures are based on strict conformance with merit principles.