Sang-Ho Moon

Date of Award

3-3-2004

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Operational Sciences

First Advisor

Jeffery D. Weir, PhD

Abstract

Many countries realize the importance of the retention of qualified military personnel, and have tried to solve this problem using various methods. Nevertheless, the effects of those methods have not been determined or proven yet. The military retention problem is closely related to each individual's separation decision from the military. The characteristics of this decision are multi-objective and highly subjective. Accordingly, the effectiveness of various methods is heavily dependant on the value set of each individual. Decision Analysis (DA) using Value Focused Thinking (VFT) can be an excellent process to deal with this decision. Also, the data can reflect the value trends of different officer groups. The intent of this research is to provide better understanding of the Air Force officer retention problem. This thesis effort involves building a VFT model to find out more effective alternatives in retaining pilots and non-pilots. This model, in conjunction with the results of the post-analysis, shows an example of the application of a VFT approach to the AF officer retention problem. Results show that both officer groups have their own unique value trends concerning their jobs. As a single alternative, Increase Resources is absolutely the best one for pilots, Meanwhile, Close Down Rural/Overseas Bases is the best for non-pilots. The results also show that alternative combinations with relatively little cost can be more influential than an alternative which costs a lot of money.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GOR-ENS-04-08

DTIC Accession Number

ADA423126

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