A Role for Effects-Based Planning in a National Security Framework

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to highlight some of the sources of concern that have arisen concerning the concept’s intellectual underpinnings, and from there to suggest a means by which to apply a pragmatic application of the planning tool.  By dispelling some of the fanciful notions surrounding the concept and questioning the appropriateness of calling it so in the first place, this paper places the “Effects Based Approach” in a larger comprehensive or whole of government approach to operations. From there, it will suggest an essential framework in which this planning tool can be applied usefully to the domestic and continental operating environment. In doing so, it places CF operations and their desired effects in the broader context of national security and the strategic or “Whole of Government” framework required therein.