About Interagency Cooperation
Abstract
In recent years there has been much discussion, frustration and angst about the lack of cooperation and coordination between and among agencies and departments of the Federal Government in response to disasters (natural and manmade) and overseas contingencies. What is needed are interagency doctrine, based upon a realistic examination and analysis of past lessons, and interagency education, supported by additional manpower spaces in key federal departments and agencies because these are the building blocks to better cooperation, improved effectiveness, and increased efficiency. The military is particularly adept at requiring its service members to receive a series of sequential and progressive educational courses throughout one's military career. Other government agencies do not have the budgets to support this level of educational activity. Since the military school system is well developed and resourced perhaps they could take advantage of the educational opportunities afforded by the military services. Unknown to most, military courses, at the staff college level and above, stress all dimensions of national power, including diplomatic, military, informational and economic, coupled with an opportunity for advanced civil schooling. Consequently, students receive a rather broad-based education. What we have learned in the military is that there is no substitute for sound doctrine, broad education, rigorous training, and focused evaluation. Indeed, the outputs of evaluations are fed back into the refinement of doctrine and the cycle repeats itself over time. It is time for the entire U.S. Government to take interagency and intergovernmental education seriously by leveraging existing capabilities, best practices, and educational technologies. The safety and security of our nation depends on it.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA551189
Entities
People
- Bob Ulin