Evaluation of Models and Techniques Used for Determining Optimum Supervisory/Employee Ratios in Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Organizations

摘要

The purpose of this study was to determine what models or techniques exist that can assist DLA Supply Centers in identifying and maintaining optimum supervisory/employee ratios within their first-line organizational elements. Basic objectives of the study were 1) to identify all existing simulation models or other techniques, 2) assess their adaptability or suitability to governmental organizations, 3) compare existing DLA first line supervisory/employee ratios with those obtained from applying suitable models or techniques, and 4) survey first line DLA supervisors to obtain their reaction to the products of the models or techniques. Results of the research revealed four existing models (Lockheed, waiting line, Keren/Levhari, and Dewar/Simet) for determining optimum supervisory/employee ratios. All were judged suitable for application to DLA organizations, but because of complexity, the Keren/Levhari and Dewar/Simet models were eliminated form further consideration in this study. Application of the Lockheed and waiting line models to DLA first-line organizations produced optimum ratios that were very close to those actually existing in the organizations.