Effects-Based Approach: Refining How We Think about Joint Operations

摘要

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.