Command and Control in Joint Vision 2010: Micro-Management or Decision Exploitation.

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between-the potential of information superiority, decision-making processes inherent in command and control functions, and the appropriate degree of centralization in organizational decision making in the Joint Vision 2010 environment. This paper develops a framework of analysis to allow future commanders to ensure operational and tactical decisions are made at the level that is appropriate to the effective functioning of the organization. Such prioritization is necessary in order to exploit the capabilities of the organization while avoiding information overload at the organization's highest levels. Making decisions at the appropriate organizational level is essential to operating inside the opponent's decision cycle and fully exploiting short-lived opportunities presented by opponents. The challenge for the future commander is to carefully examine the nature of the task to be accomplished and determine the appropriate level for decision-making. The consideration of oranizational information processing requirements/capabilities the need for independent action/separate decision cycles and time as a limitation provide a general framework for assessing an appropriate level of centralization versus decentralization in decision making. The application of this framework on the new operational concepts of precision engagement and dominant maneuver reveal important theoretical contrasts in decision-making requirements. Since Joint Vision 2010 envisions a unique combination of the application of these operational concepts together on the battlefield, the future commander must carefully examine the situational variables identified in this framework in order to assign command and control decision-making responsibilities at the appropriate level.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 16, 1998
Accession Number
ADA351773

Entities

People

  • Robert W. Cone

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Human Systems
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Cognition
  • Command And Control
  • Command And Control Systems
  • Control Systems
  • Hierarchies
  • Information Overload
  • Information Processing
  • Information Systems
  • Judgment
  • Military Operations
  • Military Organizations
  • Naval Doctrine
  • Psychology
  • Security
  • Situational Awareness
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Team-Based Human-Centered Cognitive Task Decision Making and Information Performance.

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control