First Cut at Doctrine for Automation of Division Command and Control

摘要

This study analyzes past efforts to introduce automated systems into existing military and civilian organizations. Six fundamental principles for successful implementation of automated support to management are derived and then applied to the Army division command and control system. Modifications to current division staff organizations and procedures, division command posts and the commander's modus operandi are recommended. The six principles for successful automation are: 1) Use information systems to improve internal communications and reduce analytical workload; 2) Minimize specialization of information workers; 3) Expand the jobs of information workers; 4) Simplify/modify organization structure before automating; 5) Encourage agents of change; and 6) Commanders and senior staff must provide a positive influence. Recommendations include: 1) reduce the size of the current G3 staff organization; 2) Simplify G3 staff procedures; 3) Adopt a new command post concept with two separate command posts operating on twelve hour, alternating periods; and 4) Increase information available to the commander throughout the division area of operations.