In Allen v. U.S. Postal Ser., 2 MSPB 582, 592, 2 M.S.P.R. 420 (July 22, 1980), the Board interpreted the "interest of justice" standard in 5 U.S.C. section 7701(g)(1). 2 MSPB at 587-94, 2 M.S.P.R. 420. The Board found that "the Board is accorded substantial discretion in determining when an award is warranted." Id. at 591. The Board set forth five "Allen factors" as "directional markers" for determining when an award of attorney fees is appropriate. Id. at 593.