The U.S. Army Officer Evaluation Report; Why Are We Writing to Someone Who Isn't Reading?
Abstract
The format of the U.S. Army Officer Evaluation Report (OER) is examined against its utilization by promotion and command selection boards. Alternative reporting methods are studied for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the report for both the report writer and selection board member. A narrative evaluation report primarily utilized for promotion selection is ineffective and inefficient in identifying both performance and potential ratings. Alternative evaluation report formats utilizing a more quantitative format with ratings applied against performance standards will greatly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the evaluation report. The purpose of this research is to examine the format of the U.S. Army Officer Evaluation Report in relation to how it is utilized by promotion and command selection boards. Over fifty percent of the OER is written in narrative format, however, selection boards consistently report that board members will read only three to four sentences of this predominately narrative report. I will examine the format of the OER and how it used by centralized promotion and command selections boards. With the basis of how selection boards utilize the OER I will examine alternative evaluation reporting methods for more effective and efficient reporting of an officer's performance and potential.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA398598
Entities
People
- David P. Kiter
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College