Keeping an Operational Perspective in a Network-Centric World

摘要

The dramatic increase in high fidelity, real-time data available to an operational commander through Network Centric Operations (NCO) has generated several instances of micro-management in recent conflicts. Operational commanders, when influenced by their own desire to control the situation, the limited nature of recent conflicts, and doctrine that encourages a focus on the highest fidelity, most real-time data, are likely to micro-manage the tactical level of war, losing the broader perspective and future orientation necessary for operational success. The antidote for micro-management is not to limit the use of technology; rather, it is operational leadership that understands the limits of technology and how to apply NCO theory to doctrine in a way that strengthens the operational level of war instead of shifting it to a tactical focus. This paper explores the causal factors of micro-management technology, nature of recent conflicts, leadership and doctrine. It highlights the short and long-term consequences of micro-management as well as practical ways an operational commander can recognize unwarranted tactical focus. Finally, it offers potential remedies including adjusting leadership style and doctrine that leverages the decentralizing aspects of NCO without accepting concepts that have high potential for micromanagement.