How did the reformers for the elimination of the patronage want civil service jobs to be filled?

The reformers for the elimination of the patronage wanted civil service jobs to be filled by putting people who were truly qualified to fill the positions. The positions were filled through nepotism which was bad and they wanted a change.

They believed the positions should be based on merit and best hands should be given the posts. They didn't want it to about any political affiliation or recommendation.