Deputy heads are responsible for identifying which positions are considered Affected, based on organizational needs. They have the authority to determine the merit criteria, evaluate positions and essential qualifications to decide which roles will be retained and which will be affected, in alignment with both current and anticipated operational and organizational needs, as well as the broader requirements of the public service. This process may taken weeks to years before it is complete and an employee notified of their Official Status.

WFA exercises are focused on positions and the nature of the work performed—not on the individuals occupying those roles. As a result, it is common for all employees performing similar duties within the same team to be affected by the WFA.