~5éTwo different explanations were advanced to explain the state of
Diffi-
the Livermore program, (a) the way the objectives are set up and the
with problems originate, and (b) the administrative organization.
Livermore
Program
Dr. von Neumann said that the objectives are being defined
essentially as to do something more risky than Los Alamos,
This puts
them in the frustrating position of not having a real progrem of their
own. Dr, Rabi said that Livermore has no responsibility for any
necessary part of the weapons program,
He would like to see a clear
division between Los Alamos and Livermore with respect. to defined and
different objectives,
|
However, the main problem, according to Dr. Rabi, was administra
tive,
The Laboratory would become a very effective organization if it |
really had a director,
At present, responsibilities are divided in
such a way that the arrangement works against the development of
_ strength and purpose in the organization,
The Commission should insist
on a full-time director; the Laboratory is too big to run in a haphazard
way.
Dr. Fisk agreed,
He also felt that Dr, von Neumann's point that
the Laboratory lacked a clear job to do was serious.
needed correction.
This situation
Dr. von Neumann agreed that the Laboratory was
being run by very bad organizational principles; but it was functioning
pretty well in spite of this.
He said that the presentation had beer
good,
Weapon
Subcom
The general feeling seemed to be that the Livermore program needed
mittee
more rational definition and greater strength of purpose, and that the
Liver-
method of administration should be improved.
Study of
more
ny
t
eroaey
ail
Before the Committee would