The Relation of Utilization to the Shortage of Scientists

The present utilization of engineers and scientists by industry and its significance to the ``shortage'' of scientific manpower has been investigated. Based upon available data, a limited-sample survey of scientific manpower in the aviation and electronic industries, and analyses, a rough estimate indicates that the probable average effectiveness of these scientists is somewhat less than ten per cent of perfect utilization. Various methods of increasing scientific productivity are examined. An operations research study is suggested. Improvements of communications, management techniques, and data processing methods are several recommendations. A brief history of scientific manpower supply and demand is presented. Motivations of scientists are studied, as are motivations which lead students into science careers. Estimates are made of the future supply of and demand for scientific manpower, assuming present utilization. These figures indicate the shortage will become a surplus by 1971.