Posted: February 26th, 2023

Benchmark – Data Collection

The purpose of this assignment is to conduct internal and external research to determine viable solutions that could be implemented to solve an identified problem.

For this assignment, you will create an Excel spreadsheet that summarizes the data collection you have completed. The spreadsheet should indicate the date on which particular data were collected, the source of the data collected, the type of data (qualitative or quantitative), and a one- or two-sentence summary of the data findings. 

Please note that as part of the research process, taking the initiative to speak with management and then requesting and reviewing business metrics and operations reports will allow you to find the data you need for the project while also showing your employer that you can be proactive and use critical thinking to solve problems within the organization.

Part 1:

The first step in data collection is to conduct research. You are looking for specific, measurable data (statistics and numbers) related to how the problem is affecting the organization. This information should be recorded in the form of a chart or graph that presents the data so key decision makers can see the “cost” of failing to address the problem. 

Part 2:

Next, conduct additional research to learn what has already been done to address this problem within the organization. Ask questions and interview individuals who assisted with the implementation of previous solutions used to address the problem. Prior to meeting with individuals, develop a list of questions about previous solutions. Consider factors such as customer importance, efficiency, quality, employee satisfaction, and cost effectiveness. You will want to make sure you ask questions that allow you to gather measurable data and include information about how successful previous solution options were in addressing each of the problems. When you have completed your research, the findings should be summarized in an illustration using at least one chart or graph that represents the data you have collected. Use the study materials for assistance with creating Excel graphs and charts that can be used to illustrate your findings.

Part 3:

The last step in determining potential solutions is to conduct external research. Using Internet and industry resources, research ways other companies have addressed this issue or one very similar to it. Look for specific information related to the customer response, efficiency, quality, employee satisfaction, and cost effectiveness of solutions others have implemented. Find at least five potential solutions you can consider for solving the problem you have identified. Your goal in conducting this research is to find practical examples and measurable data related to how other companies, and related industries, have resolved the same problem or one very similar to it. When you have completed your research, the findings should be summarized in an illustration using at least one chart or graph, representing the data you have collected. Use the study materials for assistance with creating Excel graphs and charts, as this will help illustrate your findings.

Submit the data collection Excel spreadsheet and the three data summary charts/graphs you have created from the research conducted.

While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines.

Template

Brainstorming with an Affinity Diagram

Problem/Issue: Low morale within military

“Why” Question: Why are soldiers within the military experiencing low morale?

Favoritism

Multitasking

Time away from families

Long hours

Lack of vision/goals

Hostile work environment

Too-heavy work demands

Poor management

Improper training

Conflicting systems

Themes based upon commonalities

Systems

Leadership

Progression

Compensation and Benefits

Employee Training and Tools

Low compensation

Improper training

Conflicting systems

Hostile work environment
Favoritism

Time away from families

Multitasking

Too-heavy work demands

Lack of vision/purpose

Poor management

Connection

The majority of the members agree that there is a need to improve leadership training, hence this group has a lot in common with the Employee Training & Tools group.

Defined Problem: Low morale and productivity among Soldiers

Why are soldiers within the military experiencing low morale?

· Workers report a deficiency of direction and believe their efforts are being wasted.

Why is that?

· Employees believe that many managers are not providing effective leadership.

Why is that?

· A large number of employees believe that their supervisors are more interested in furthering their own careers than in achieving the organization’s objectives.

Why is that?

· Workers have a negative impression of their workplace climate.

Why is that?

· People are promoted to positions of authority over which they have neither prepared nor expertise.

Why is that?

· Because of personnel turnover caused by promotions or transfers, many leaders feel pressured to find replacements for vacant positions. Every tier of management has to have its own set of tests and training, but it’s easy for poor performers with toxic qualities to slip through the cracks when there are so many people to choose from.

Validate of root causes

Low morale is a result of the effects of toxic leadership, which may be witnessed in the military. There is evidence that working under a negative manager may lead to a decline in both effort and quality (by up to 38 percent) (Kerns, 2021). This lowers morale and has knock-on effects on teamwork, efficiency, and preparedness for missions. In order to solve this problem, Army supervisors at all levels must strictly enforce laws and promote open-door systems where undesirable behavior may be reported. The promotion of managers might be based on personality tests like those employed by large civilian organizations. Leaders who fail to deliver and have a negative influence on morale and productivity should be removed from their positions as soon as possible because they are a threat to both the training and battle environments.

Reference

Kerns, Z. D. (2021). 
A Crisis of Low Morale: Support for the Military in America’s Working Class. US Army School for Advanced Military Studies.

image1

Writing a Problem Statement

Original problem or focus question

Low morale within military

Stakeholders who are most affected by the problem

Military personnel and their families

Impact to stakeholders

Low morale within military personnel can have serious consequences for both the individuals and the organization as a whole. Low morale may have a negative effect on production because soldiers may lose interest in or enthusiasm for doing their jobs properly. There may be an increase in absenteeism if soldiers aren’t inspired to show up for work. Additionally, low morale can contribute to increased rates of attrition, as soldiers may choose to leave the military in search of a more fulfilling and supportive work environment. The decreased job satisfaction and motivation can also negatively impact employee retention, as soldiers may be less likely to stay with the military for the long-term. Low morale can also lead to decreased commitment to the mission and lower levels of trust in leadership, which can have far-reaching consequences for the organization and its ability to achieve its goals. Ultimately, addressing the issue of low morale is critical for promoting the well-being of military personnel and ensuring the effective functioning of the organization.

Type of problem

The problem in the military is one of attitude, specifically, low morale among personnel. This is due to a lack of recognition for their contributions, inadequate support in their duties, and poor leadership that fails to address their needs and concerns. These issues can lead to decreased productivity, higher rates of absenteeism and attrition, and decreased job satisfaction and motivation. It is crucial that the military addresses these problems in order to promote a positive work environment, improve performance, and retain valuable personnel.

Suspected cause(s) of the problem

Poor leadership, inadequate support, lack of recognition and resources

Goal for improvement and long-term impact

The overall morale of soldiers is aimed to be raised to 85% during the next 2 years as a means of addressing the problem of poor morale in the military. This can be achieved through various initiatives such as providing regular recognition and appreciation for their hard work, improving support systems for the personnel, and enhancing leadership skills through training and development programs. With improved morale, military personnel will have a higher level of job satisfaction and motivation, resulting in increased productivity, reduced absenteeism and attrition rates. This, in turn, will have a positive long-term impact on the overall efficiency and effectiveness of military operations and maintenance of the high standards and values of the military.

Proposal for addressing the problem and determining impact from Christian worldview perspective

From a Christian worldview perspective, addressing low morale in the military should involve not just improving work conditions, but promoting human flourishing and creating a positive work environment. A comprehensive leadership training program is crucial in this process, as it will equip leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively support and motivate military personnel. Providing adequate support and resources to military personnel and their families is also crucial in improving morale, as it demonstrates the value placed on the well-being of military personnel. Recognizing the achievements and contributions of military personnel is another important aspect, as it boosts their sense of self-worth and motivation to perform at their best. Overall, a holistic approach to addressing low morale in the military, grounded in a Christian worldview, will have a positive impact on the well-being and productivity of military personnel, and ultimately contribute to the success of the military organization.

Final problem statement

Low morale within the military has a significant impact on military personnel, leading to decreased productivity, higher rates of absenteeism and attrition, decreased job satisfaction, and motivation. The root causes of low morale include poor leadership, inadequate support, lack of recognition, and resources. To increase overall morale to 85% within the next 2 years and promote human flourishing, a comprehensive leadership training program, adequate support and resources, recognition of achievements and contributions, and a positive work environment are needed.

Documentation of sources

Kerns, Z. D. (2021). 
A Crisis of Low Morale: Support for the Military in America’s Working Class. US Army School for Advanced Military Studies.

© 2019. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.

3

image1