Problems in the Use of Ad Hoc Structures in DOD Crisis Management and Implications for Change

Abstract

Abstract : The purposes of this research were to determine if crisis management tasks in the Department of Defense are handled by ad hoc groups, and to then analyze the question of whether the decision-making performance of ad hoc groups is inferior to the performance of permanent organizations. The research depended on a search of the social science literature, analysis of case studies of past crisis decision-making, and briefings by DOD officials and others familiar with crisis management. In Task 1, it was found that the Department has standing procedures for activating units to handle crisis, but that the units created are still ad hoc groups. In Task 2, seven major problem areas were identified in which ad hoc groups are less effective than permanent organizations. The recommendation of the Report is that the Department establish a permanent, though not necessarily full-time, organization for crisis management. A final chapter suggests the requirements for and responsibilities of such a unit.