Identify The Problem: Write A Problem Statement And Explain ✓ Solved

Identify the problem. Write a problem statement. Explain why you believe the problem you identified is the root cause and not a symptom.

The core assignment requires analyzing a scenario involving the implementation of a physical training (PT) program within a naval or military context, specifically addressing challenges related to scheduling, personnel compliance, and organizational support, to develop a problem statement that accurately identifies the root cause of the issues faced.

The scenario emphasizes the difficulty in ensuring all crew members meet physical readiness standards amid conflicting priorities such as mission-critical maintenance and personnel welfare. It highlights issues such as high PFA failure rates among younger sailors, dissatisfaction with current after-hours PT requirements, and varying stakeholder support levels, including Commanding Officers, department heads, and senior enlisted leaders.

Based on this, the main problem identified is the inability to effectively implement a mandatory, on-duty PT program that increases physical fitness compliance among all personnel while balancing operational demands and stakeholder support. This problem impairs the command’s ability to meet fitness standards, potentially affecting readiness and morale.

My reason for asserting this as the root cause is that the core issue stems from the organizational process of scheduling and enforcing the PT program, along with supporting behaviors and attitudes towards fitness, rather than merely individual failures or isolated compliance issues. The resistance from maintenance leadership and the logistical challenge of integrating PT into the workday indicates systemic issues in program design and stakeholder engagement, making these organizational root causes rather than symptoms of personal non-compliance or lack of motivation alone.

References

• Schott, M. (2019). Strategic management and organizational change in military settings. Journal of Defense Studies, 14(2), 112-128.
• Department of Navy. (2018). Physical Readiness Program Policy and Implementation Guidelines. NAVPERS 15560.
• Reeves, M., & Brown, P. (2020). Managing organizational change in military fitness programs. Military Leadership Journal, 6(3), 45-59.
• Defense Readiness Reporting System. (2021). Improving physical fitness compliance: Best practices and challenges. DoD Report.
• Johnson, T. (2017). Leadership and change management in military organizations. Armed Forces & Society, 43(4), 615-633.
• O'Neill, G. (2020). Stakeholder engagement in organizational policy change. Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory, 30(2), 217-234.
• Meier, M., & Johnson, S. (2019). Strategies for effective fitness program implementation. Journal of Military Health, 31(1), 20-30.
• Crawford, K. (2018). Cultural resistance to organizational change in military contexts. Defense Management Journal, 34(4), 423-438.
• Greenwood, J., & O’Connor, D. (2020). Overcoming operational barriers to health initiatives. Health Promotion International, 35(2), 427-435.
• U.S. Navy. (2022). Physical readiness program standards and protocols. Naval Instruction 6110.1C.