Why did the powers that be increase the TIG/TIS requirements for primary zone and then add a third category when they created the MLI system?

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 20:10:35 -0400

The MLI (mandatory list integration) is a good idea in principle but they messed it up when they added to the amount of time needed for primary zone. I will be pinning SGT soon and because of how long it took me to make it under the old system I would have been in my primary zone after 10 months TIG now I have to wait an additional 7 months. I don't understand the thinking behind it as with most things in the Army my hope is that someone who actually help make this system will see this and answer my question or better yet reevaluate.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 10:42 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 22:42:38 -0400

It’s based on the population of the rank. I’m sure they weren’t looking to screw you over. It sucks but ya about personnel mangment. You venting?

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 11:22 PM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 23:22:30 -0400

Yes sir just venting but at the same time I can't wrap my head around it. I don't know a whole lot about the inner workings of personnel management in regards to how the Army decides requirements for promotion. I was under the understanding that the Army needs more NCO's. I have been watching the points required for promotion decline ever since President Trump took office and decided to increase the force so my thinking on the situation is if your trying to increase the force and you need more leaders why make it harder to attain the position. I know that sounds silly as a leadership role is hard enough to obtain and you should have to work for it. That being said career fields like mine "balanced and under strength" the points are high and not easy to come by so why increase the amount of time for primary zone which is the only thing at all that gives relief in the struggle to make the cut off. I do appreciate you taking the time to respond never imagined a COL would take the time.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 14 at 2018 7:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 19:27:50 -0400

SPC(P) King, I can attest that as you progress through the junior enlisted ranks, no one controls your promotions but you. As SSG Pefley stated above, you should only worry about enhancing your standing on the list. Doesn't matter if secondary zone points hover around 700, at some point no one on the list will have that many and points will drop, which is when you need to be ready. I can recall making SGT and SSG at 681 and 680, respectively. Cutoff scores for those were 681 and 680, respectively. Point being, I was the last one to get picked up in secondary zone both times. I just so happened to be ready when points dipped below 700 for the first time both times! Keep doing the right things. Continue to develop as a Leader, mentor your subordinates and keep pushing to be better. Good job on seeking guidance in a forum such as Rally Point. Speaks volumes as to what type of Soldier you are!