Research for Costs

The Department of Defense is developing a computerized adaptive-testing version of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This or some other version of the ASVAB may be enhanced by the addition of new, computerized subtests. A cost/benefit analysis has estimated a benefit of $450 million per year as the result of such enhancement. This paper questions the operational relevance of any such estimate. The paper describes ways in which the validation study of new tests needs to be expanded. It also discusses pros and cons of adaptive testing.

The last of three evaluations of the Targeted Enlistment Bonus (TEB) for Nuclear Field recruits is contained in this research memorandum. The TEB differs from previous enlistment bonuses by varying the bonus amounts according to the season a recruit begins active duty. Historically, Nuclear Field accessions have been characterized by a seasonal surge in the summer months, reflecting the presence of many Nuclear Field recruits for beginning service shortly after obtaining a high school diploma. The TEB is designed to assist recruiters in achieving a more level flow of accessions during the year. It was tested during an eighteen month period. For the evaluation, Nuclear Field recruits during this period are compared to those of previous years in terms of the phasing of accessions and enlistment contracts, and indicators of recruit quality. Savings associated with the TEB experiment are calculated, and the implications for potential changes in the TEB are drawn.

This research memorandum describes the principal components of the Department of the Navy budget that relate to the conduct of Navy individual training. It defines and describes the content of the budget categories and details the dollar estimates and manpower levels associated with training for FY 1981 through FY 1986. It also explains the organizational responsibilities for the management of training resources as well as the conduct of the specific types of individual training.

An evaluation of current Navy practices for assessing the cost effects of production competition in programs using dual production sources is presented. Weapon system cost analysis practices are presented first as a baseline, followed by discussion of particular methods used when two production sources are expected. The scope of the evaluation was limited to cost analysis practices at the headquarters level in the three hardware systems commands and at what is now the Naval Center for Cost Analysis.