Managerial education of naval officers

Abstract

In the Navy almost all officers, whether junior or senior, hold positions as managers. The economy and efficiency of the Navy's operations, therefore, depends on the ability of it': managers to plan, organize, staff, direct and control the organization. A review is made of what noted authorities on the subject of management have said about the universality of management principles and the need to develop managers through education and training. Also, a review is made of the educational background of officer candidates as to the amount of management development they have received. From these reviews, an attempt is made to show that although naval officers are well educated they are lacking in one important area. This is the area of management development, which is necessary if the Navy is to obtain the maximum performance from its officers. A comparison is also made of the Navy' s manager development program with those of industry and other services. From these are drawn conclusions and recommendations to assist in the managerial development of today's naval officers.