The big problem is the general operations of the military is just as slow and ineffecient and non-innovative as the DMV or any other government office. You need to update your file because you went from “single” to “married”? You’ll need to make an appointment a few days in advance, still have a wait time, and that’s assuming DEERS isn’t down for a couple days. Good luck having someone answer when you call the Finance office.
We are understaffed and have inefficient systems.
Here is my proposed Solution
1. Diagnosis Phase (90 days)
Mandate a Systems Audit: Form a task force of operational experts, military personnel, and civilian consultants to assess inefficiencies across key systems (e.g., DEERS, Finance, etc.).
- Employee Surveys: Gather anonymous feedback from service members and civilian employees to understand pain points.
- Technology Audit: Evaluate existing software and hardware to identify outdated systems.
2. Investment in Technology Modernization
Legislation: Pass funding for a $5 billion “Military Tech Renewal Fund.”
Action: Partner with tech leaders (e.g., IBM, Google Cloud) to modernize systems like DEERS and Finance using secure cloud-based solutions.
Streamlined Interfacing: Build a single military app/portal for managing personal records, pay inquiries, and benefits, available 24/7.
3. Workforce Reform and Staffing Support
- Hiring Initiatives: Invest in hiring additional staff for overburdened departments. Offer competitive salaries and training to attract top talent.
- Remote Work: Allow certain administrative roles to operate remotely, reducing office bottlenecks.
Career Advancement: Provide employees with pathways for promotion tied to performance metrics.
4. Process Streamlining and Automation
*Lean Six Sigma Training: Require departments to implement workflow analysis to cut unnecessary steps.
AI Assistance: Use chatbots and AI to manage routine inquiries, freeing up staff for complex cases.
Fast-Track for Updates: Introduce self-service kiosks and automated forms for basic updates like marital status or direct deposit changes.
5. Measurement and Accountability
Performance Metrics: Publish quarterly reports on system performance, wait times, and staffing metrics.
Continuous Improvement: Require departments to review processes every 6 months, incorporating feedback from service members.