Confusion Over Validity and Effects of Purported Petty Officer Shortage
NSIAD-84-30
Published: Jun 27, 1984. Publicly Released: Jul 02, 1984.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the validity and effects of a purported shortage of petty officers in the Navy, focusing on: (1) the Navy's longstanding claim of a shortage; and (2) Navy plans to increase the number of petty officers.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of the Navy | The Secretary of the Navy should develop and issue written guidelines for the enlisted programmed authorizations. At a minimum, the guidelines should explain what they are, how they are developed and revised, their uses, and their limitations. |
Closed – Implemented
The Navy's revised Manpower Policies Manual, OPNAVINST 1000.16F, published on August 12, 1986, defines enlisted programmed authorizations (EPA) and provides guidelines on EPA development, use, and limitations. An accomplishment report will be prepared following the implementation of another recommendation, which calls for the use of these guidelines in statements to Congress.
|
| Department of the Navy | The Secretary of the Navy should clearly identify the sources of all data used in calculations of enlisted personnel needs, authorizations, and shortages in all presentations of manpower and personnel issues to Congress. |
Closed – Implemented
The Navy's presentations of its petty officer shortfalls have been more detailed and definitive; however, the data sources used often have not been identified. Because statements about petty officer shortfalls will increase in fiscal year 1989, there is a need for clarity in presentations and identification of data source groups. The Navy does not intend to take any further corrective action.
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Topics
Authorizing legislationCombat readinessCongressional oversightEnlisted personnelStaff utilizationMathematical analysisNaval personnelPersonnel managementProgram managementProjections