Assessment of Personality as a Requirement for Next Generation Ship Optimal Manning

Abstract

In an effort to reduce next generation naval vessel total operational cost, significant manpower reductions were incorporated into their overall design strategy while maintaining expected mission and performance capabilities. It is contended reduced manpower availability is mitigated through advanced technology integration and increased systems automation. Little research exits on how personnel requirements shifted with changes in ship design. This study examines the potential use of personality traits in recruiting and determining crew assignments. Surveys were administered to Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) attending the Naval Postgraduate School. Select SWOs initially participated in a focus group to support developing an on-line survey, and subsequently a larger population of SWOs answered an on-line survey to provide comparative data on personality traits vs. knowledge, skills, and abilities believed to directly impact performance on current traditionally manned Small-Boy ships and future optimally manned vessels. The results of the survey indicate personality traits are found to be ranked second in importance in all operational tempo levels and across both ship types. The findings suggest personality traits should be considered in staffing the next generation of U.S. Navy ships.