Book Description

Historically, some of the most significant research and development (R & D) in occupational analysis (OA) has been accomplished by military organizations for military applications. Several of the most important OA methodologies were developed under military sponsorship. Examples include functional job analysis, worker-oriented approaches (the Position Analysis Questionnaire, the General Work Inventory, etc.), and the Task Inventory/Comprehensive Occupational Data Analysis Programs (CODAP) approach. Significant advances are continuing to be made in occupational analysis for military applications. Many military organizations are major users of these technologies. The major methods developed for military applications are used in the civilian world as well, in both the public and private sectors. This report highlights recent research advances and applications of military OA technology. It is designed to bring military psychologists up to date concerning OA technology for military applications and the impact that military occupational analysis is having on civilian practice. First, the history of occupational analysis R & D and application in military organizations is reviewed, to establish the context for ensuing chapters covering current military OA R & D results and applications. The various chapters address OA in both U.S. and allied nations' service organizations. In addition, civilian applications of military OA technology are discussed. Finally, future directions for OA are highlighted. The potential use of OA methods for modeling organizational structure, and for informing organizational interventions (e.g., job enlargement, training, technostructural change), is also discussed. The final chapter includes a proposed research agenda for future military occupational analysis R & D based on comments received from symposium discussants.