Final answer:
The classification/grading method is the most popular job evaluation method used by government civil service organizations, ensuring that jobs are categorized fairly according to predefined criteria and aligned with the merit-based selection system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The job evaluation method that has historically been popular with government civil service organizations is a. classification/grading. This method involves categorizing jobs into grades or classes based on a series of predefined criteria such as job content, skills required, responsibilities, and working conditions. Jobs within the same grade or class are considered to be of equal value and are typically paid the same rate. In the context of government employment, classification/grading system helps to ensure that positions are filled in a fair and systematic manner, aligning with the principles of the merit-based selection system, which is a key aspect of civil service employment.
Merit-based selection systems value the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) of applicants to match the requirements of the position. The trend in the federal government's civil service has been increasingly focused on hiring based on merit, underpinned by a strong commitment to ensuring applicants have the KSAs required for the job. Civil service exams have historically been used for this purpose, although their use has declined in favor of directly assessing applicants' qualifications.