The CNA Corporation (CNAC) is a non-profit research organization that operates the Center for Naval Analyses and the Institute for Public Research. Through innovative analysis, CNAC provides public sector organizations with the tools to tackle complex problems. CNAC's objective, empirical research and analysis help decision makers form sound policies, make better informed decisions, and manage programs more effectively. In so doing, CNAC has established itself at the forefront of efforts to make our country safer and stronger, and our government more efficient. The organization is defined by a unique brand of multi-disciplinary, field-based "real world" research and analysis.

CNAC's roots trace back to 1942 and World War II. During this period our scientists conducted seminal research that helped the Allied Forces with the German U-Boat threat. In the process, we pioneered the field of operations research and analysis, now a distinct field of study and a series of techniques widely used in both military and civil society.

Building on this rich history and our innovative approaches to solving national security and defense issues, CNAC now addresses a broader range of public interest issues. CNAC's growth into new areas that affect the public—including education, health care and public health, homeland security, human capital management, and air traffic management—reflects an institution that is evolving to apply our experience to the ever more complex issues facing society and its leaders.

CNAC's empirical approach to public interest research and analysis is increasingly important as unvarnished, objective analysis becomes increasingly rare. CNAC provides decision makers with the kind of expert, cutting-edge analysis that can make the difference between good and great decisions—and between success and failure.