Refining How We Think About Joint Operations: an Effects-based Approach
Abstract
As the lead agent for the Secretary of Defense for transformation of joint forces to meet these challenges, U.S. Joint Forces Command (USJFCOM) supports the joint community by pursuing a number of transformation-related objectives. One objective being discussed by the Secretary of Defense and other senior leaders in the Department of Defense (DOD) is creating capabilities within an overall framework of shared, knowledge empowered, effects-based operations (EBO). Since 2001, the command has focused on testing and refining the concept while seeking the best ways to implement it. This evolution has included Service participation in joint experimentation, discussions with faculty at mid- and senior-level Service and joint schools, observation of effects-related constructs in action at deployed operational headquarters, and engagement with interagency and multinational partners. This article provides background on an effects-based approach and explains the key elements, highlights their application in current joint operations, and discusses their incorporation in joint doctrine, training, and education. In the interest of providing the bottom line up front, an effects-based approach adds value to traditional joint processes in four areas: 1) improved unified action among military, interagency, multinational, and nongovernmental organizations, 2) an expanded understanding of the operational environment beyond the traditional military battlespace focus, 3) an improved joint planning process that uses effects to clarify the desired endstate conditions in terms of the operational environment, and 4) an enhanced joint assessment process that measures effects attainment rather than just task accomplishment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA480952