The efficiency of the Brazilian Navy's Riverine Captaincies from a Cost Perspective, based on Data Envelopment Analysis

Abstract

carrying out their waterway traffic safety activities between 2021 and 2023. This is a descriptive, quantitative study employing a data envelopment analysis slacks-based model and input oriented. In order to achieve this, cost data and the net value of fixed assets related to the operational activity of waterway traffic safety were employed as inputs, in addition to the costs associated with the maintenance and operation of the units' infrastructure. The number of naval inspections and surveys conducted, and the extent of the area under the jurisdiction of each organization were considered as outputs. The findings revealed that the River Captaincies exhibited an average efficiency index of 0.8890, over the study period. Three units demonstrated consistent efficiency across all three years and were identified as benchmarks for the others. The discrepancies in inputs that led to the observed inefficiencies in the units and the optimal values for each cost element, which would enable the units to reach the efficiency frontier while maintaining the level of outputs, were also demonstrated. The results achieved are useful as parameters for the optimal distribution of resources, as well as for the potential establishment of annual cost reduction targets for these organizations. Consequently, the assessment of public organization efficiency from a cost perspective represents a crucial indicator for the administrators of these units, providing guidance on the management of the limited resources under their purview. Academically, this research contributes to the existing literature on the efficiency of military organizations, particularly regarding the development of waterway traffic safety activities. From a practical standpoint, this research can inform improvements in cost management within the Brazilian Navy, which is a strategic naval objective included in the Force's Strategic Plan.