Validation of DEOCS 4.1: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Abstract
DEOCS 4.1 has demonstrated to provide reliable measurement of the associated factors. In addition, it has also proven to be a valuable asset to Commanders in providing them a snapshot of their units climate. However, several limitations of these analyses should be noted. The first limitation involves the fit value of some of the indices. One possible reason for these fit values could be that the DEOCS measures both climate and non-climate constructs within each section of the DEOCS. This variation would lead to a reduction of fit since each section of the DEOCS would not be measuring a single latent construct as hypothesized. Secondly, these analyses were conducted at the individual level and not aggregated. Since the DEOCS is designed to measure unit climate, future research should examine if the fit indices would improve aggregating the data to the unit and then conducting the analyses. Future efforts should continue to focus on finding a balance between stakeholders and theory to continue to ensure that the DEOCS is a valid and usable climate assessment. The next revision to the DEOCS should consider increasing the theoretical background of which constructs make up organizational climate while still eliciting feedback from Commanders, Service EO program managers, and DoD entities. Also, consideration should be made to structure the survey into climate or non-climate sections. Another future direction for the DEOCS would be to consider a molar approach to measuring climate. This would allow Commanders and stakeholders to obtain a general idea of member well-being within the unit. It is also important to note that process improvements to the DEOCS continue to include: (1) determining and evaluating existing constructs that remain of interest to the DoD; (2) examining, evaluating, and defining constructs related to newer initiatives within the DoD; and (3) determining a priori needs for aggregation of these constructs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 10, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1086464
Entities
People
- Daniel P. Mcdonald
Organizations
- Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute