The Study: A Tool for Decision?
Abstract
The basic question is whether the Army uses the study process as a tool to aid in decision making or a way to postpone having to make a decision. The question was examined using studies pertaining to combat vehicle systems since 1970. Data was gathered from a literature search, examining studies found, going through files to examine the correspondence that accompanied many of the studies where such correspondence was still available, and conversations with people who were involved in the conduct of many of the studies. It is concluded that although studies are generally being used to aid decision making, they are not exploited to their full potential. They many not be available due to restrictions or oversight, or they may have taken so long to complete that the question was answered by other means. It is also concluded that decisions made as a result of studies are not always implimented due to lack of resources, goal consensus, or the absence of resolve on the part of the decision maker to make it happen. The Army should require that: all studies be filed in DDC or DTIC, a literature search be a requirement for all studies, goal consensus be reached before starting a study, complex studies be simplified, decisions made be resourced and lastly, when the decision is made to implement an action, all persons involved should support that decision. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 22, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA158050
Entities
People
- J. H. Van Zant Jr
Organizations
- United States Army War College