"Well, I suppose it depends on the situation. Sometimes bureaucracy can get in the way of expediting a task, in which case the real question is whether there is a better way of doing things. The path of least resistance to get the job done should be the right way to do the job, thus eliminating taking shortcuts. But first, you must ask questions and have a thorough understanding of the intent of the rules. I feel like rules should be obeyed, but they must first be understood."

Many procedures and regulations are in place that can contribute to the monotony and repetitive nature of life as a civil servant. Record keeping and reporting is one aspect of this. Therefore, acting according to the rules and procedures is a prerequisite for the job, with some reasonable flexibility. Your interviewer is trying to assess how well you would flourish in an environment like theirs.

The Civil Services states that "Delivering value for money involves the efficient, effective and economic use of taxpayers' money in the delivery of public services. For all staff, it means seeking out and implementing solutions which achieve the best mix of quality, and effectiveness for the least outlay. People who do this well base their decisions on evidenced information and follow agreed processes and policies, challenging these appropriately where they appear to prevent good value for money."