The Bay Area Supply Support Pattern : an analysis of consolidation in an era of decentralization

Abstract

In recent years, pressure has been brought to bear in many areas of the Department of Defense to decrease costs and at the same time, maintain or increase efficiency. The major organizations of the San Francisco Bay Area Supply Support Pattern comprised one segment of the United States Navy supply system that was compelled to revamp it's method of operation for these reasons. An historical review was conducted which included perusal of literature on the subjects of centralization and decentralization; and the profusion of directives; letters, both official and personal; and memoranda made available during a number of visits to the Mare Island and the San Francisco Naval Shipyards. This review will bring the reader to the present status of the Bay Area Supply Support Pattern. The author became interested in the growing pains of the Pattern during a tour of duty at the San Francisco Naval Shipyard. With the kind assistance provided by the Supply Officers of the activities involved as well as personnel of the Bureau of Supplies and Accounts, problem areas will be delineated and an attempt will be made to foresee the future development of the Bay Area Supply Support Pattern.