A review of the issues concerning the field of occupational analysis was undertaken in order to indicate the comparative strengths and weaknesses of the task inventory (TI). Specifically, the significance of the TI was assessed for reliability and validity, job analysis and evaluation, occupational restructuring and career ladder development, and manpower planning. Particular attention is placed on the Comprehensive Occupational Data Analysis Programs (CODAP) originally developed by the Air Force as it is applied in the Navy civilian Models for Organization Design and Staffing (MODS) system. The TI/CODAP was found to produce accurate, reliable, and comprehensive job data. Personnel assignment modelling was discussed as a special adaptation of the TI. The creation of a comprehensive and exhaustive person/position data file was combined with low cost, accuracy of assignment, and computerized speed. In sum, the relevance, utility, and comprehensiveness of the TI/CODAP seems to offer a significant step forward over other forms of occupational analysis. (TA)