Conclusion

communications media, such as twisted-pair wire, coaxial cable or fiberoptic cable that connects the nodes. A LAN gives you the capability of transferring data, files, programs, and so on, from one PC to another or even from one LAN to another. You can transfer a report or listing to any printer you desire on the network. By connecting your PC into a LAN system, you can execute application programs stored on the server’s hard disk without having to worry about disk space or keeping track of diskettes. You can exchange files and programs with other users directly without copying them onto a diskette. Further information regarding LANs can be found in the Data Processing Technician Second Class manual. CONCLUSION Managing a public affairs office is an undertaking that requires thorough planning, personnel training and an in-depth knowledge of the public affairs field. Although there are many qualities a senior JO must have, self-reliance certainly ranks as one of the most important if he is to be the office manager and trusted assistant to the PAO. Why place so much emphasis on self-reliance? There are numerous situations in which you will find yourself on your own. When a problem arises, you have to solve it by yourself. You will not have the time to seek the advise or approval of the PAO or some other officer. You will have to make your own decisions, relying entirely on your own judgment. A self-reliant JO is one who can adapt himself to any situation. If unforeseen circumstances develop, you must use your own initiative and imagination to get the job done. Armed with a knowledge of the tools of com- munication and of the public affairs problems of the command, and using a large measure of common sense in concert with the management techniques discussed in this chapter, you should be able to administer a public affairs office in a professional manner. Insist that every project and piece of correspondence that leaves the office be professional in content and appearance. That means letter-perfect copy, professionally assembled project folders, news clips that are professionally mounted and identified and, of course, high-quality news releases and photographs. Output is judged by the media, by the officer in command and his staff and by other professionals on the quality of what public affairs personnel produce and not on what they say they can produce. Professional standards are hard to maintain, but they are essential in maintaining the professional integrity of an office. 1-55