A COMPUTER-ASSISTED PLANNING SYSTEM
Abstract
The paper describes the development of a computer-assisted logistic planning system by the Research Analysis Corporation (RAC) for the Department of the Army. The system described is the first known large-scale application of computer assistance to Army planning problems. The computer-assisted planning system is designed to determine future requirements for manpower and materiel and thus affects the Army's troop and materiel programs. Previous procedures utilized in determining these requirements have been time consuming, involved extensive amounts of hand computations diverting military planners from decisions, and lacked the capability to evaluate assumptions or consider alternative concepts of support. The new planning system is designed to eliminate these deficiencies and provide a more responsive planning tool to handle the wide range of contingencies which face the Army today. The paper places primary emphasis on the techniques utilized in developing the system, which included a systems analysis, a pilot study, special analytical techniques -- including PERT -- and concurrent computer program development and evaluation. Research began in January 1959 on a pilot area -- transportation planning. Upon successful completion of this phase, the study was extended 'across the board' to design an integrated computer-assisted system for determination of the complete manpower and materiel technical support requirements for the plan.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0649273
Entities
People
- Martin W. Brossman