Anyone who has been in any branch of the military should know what DJMS stands for. And, I bet if we were to poll a percentage of you about DJMS, many responses would be filled with negatives.
DJMS is an acronym for…
Defense Joint Military Pay System
I must admit, when first developed, this system was a far cry better than what was. But maybe it is time for the Department of Defense to consider better options. And being a person who has written plenty about blockchain technology, I believe the complete military pay structure would run better on blockchain.
But that is just my opinion. Maybe the powers that be will read this and consider that option.
Let’s take a look at DJMS…
What Is DJMS?
DJMS is a computer software that standardizes military pay procedures among all branches. This is a great thing due to the fact that there is so much joint military activity and keeping track would be difficult if each branch had to maintain records.
DJMS consists of client/server terminals and local area networks that provide input to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) central sites.
The data on DJMS is sensitive but unclassified. While difficult to access that data, it is not impossible from unauthorized sources.
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History Of DJMS
The system was developed by the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) and was in full operation in 1991. The total cost originally was $184,000,000.
DJMS is in operation at approximately 100 Army sites, 80 Air Force sites, 3 Navy sites, and 3 DFAS centers.
Where The Problems Are
DJMS for the biggest part, has been better than any pay system we had before. But when it comes to deployed Guard or Reserve members, there have been huge discrepancies.
Many claim that the Marines have a system that should be used instead… The Marine Corps Total Force System (MCTFS) could be a long-term solution to the problem of military pay discrepancies.
It seems that Army National Guard and Reserves have faced many issues with this system and I do agree that these men and women who serve our country should be paid on time, every time.
DJMS needs to be overhauled or MCTFS needs to be used.
Final Thoughts
I served before DJMS and I distinctly remember 3 cases where there were issues with my pay. In one case, I was overpaid by over $800 that I had to pay back.
Soldiers should not have to face these issues.
What are your thoughts? Have you had any issues with DJMS?
What is the best way for the Army to solve this issue?
Please leave all questions and comments below.
Thank you.
Chuck Holmes
Former Army Major (resigned)
Publisher, Part-Time-Commander.com
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
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