DESIGNING A MENTAL MOBILITY ASSESSMENT FRAMEWORK FOR ENHANCING DECISIONMAKING IN BANGLADESH ARMY OFFICERS

Abstract

Mental mobility is the ability to function positively in an environment of quick changes, uncertainty, and inadequacy of information. It is the capacity to make quick decisions in complex situations. It is essential for effective decisionmaking. Despite its importance, the Bangladesh Army lacks standardized parameters to measure mental mobility. This study addresses the gap by examining how officers can better develop cognitive agility, including quick information processing and adaptability. Existing training methods emphasize traditional learning approaches, which limit officers’ ability to adapt to dynamic operational environments. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative data from case studies, interviews, and FGDs and quantitative data from surveys, Officer Performance Reports (OPR) marks, and staff course results. The paper analyzed key performance indicators such as OPR marks, staff course results, and commanders’ assessments to measure officers’ mental mobility. The focus was on intellectual ability, creativity, and fastness in decision-making. Findings revealed that while officers perform well in intellectual ability, they struggle to process information quickly and make effective decisions under stress. A key challenge is the lack of formal mental mobility data within the military system, making it difficult to effectively assess and appoint officers to command roles. The study recommends introducing a set of mental mobility training in regular courses, enhanced mentorship programs, and systematic assessment mechanisms for measuring cognitive agility through revised OPR formats and course reports. Maintaining a mental mobility database at the MS branch is also essential for selecting officers based on their cognitive agility score for command appointments.