Analysis of Recruiting Costs by Interest and Aptitude.
Abstract
This study developed an analytical model of Air Force nonprior service (NPS) enlisted recruiting costs reflecting the way the Air Force recruits and its sensitivity to certain factors. These factors include the numbers and aptitude requirements of entry-level positions and the aptitudes and interests of the applicant population. After reviewing recruiting modeling literature and evaluating modeling strategies, a hybrid approach, combining cost accounting and statistical modeling, was selected. A conceptual model was constructed and the data requirements identified. Data collection consisted of two surveys and extracting data from historical files. One survey measured recruits interest in Air Force job clusters. The other obtained recruiting difficulty ratings from recruiters. Historical data was used to obtain cost information, applicant numbers, numbers of recruiters assigned, aptitude distributions, and first-term job distribution. The data was used to estimate model parameters and develop a spreadsheet. The model produced estimates of recruiting difficulty consistent with experienced recruiter judgements; its cost estimates were within 2 percent of actual costs (FY90-93). The model offers a promising analytical framework for evaluating Air Force enlisted recruiting and personnel policy. Future work could include evaluating a broader sample of applicants and cost data, and enhancing the model software's usability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA316978
Entities
People
- D. A. Smith
- Daniel L. Leighton
- Gary L. Macomber
- Janelle K. Viera