The use of Reenlistment Bonuses

Reenlistment bonuses are a powerful tool for effecting the retention behavior of enlisted personnel. The proper allocation of these bonuses across ratings was found to require information the Navy does not currently possess. A technique was developed for assisting in this allocation process when the ideal information is not available. Recommendations are made for altering or improving the criteria on which bonus allocations are based. The Navy's personnel data system and future research needs are also evaluated.