Lessons identified from the first UK Effects Based Planning Experiment

This paper outlines the findings from the first UK Effects Based Planning Experiment, conducted in October 2003. The main aim of the experiment was to assess a candidate EBP process at the operational level of command and identify equipment capability requirements and issues for shortto medium-term exploitation. The EBP process was based on the development and assessment of a set of planning constructs including Network Analysis and Effects Rationale (Courses of Effect). A group of eight military players formed a UK National Contingent Headquarters and conducted the EBP process using prototype EBP software tools. The two main lessons identified from the experiment were (1) the requirement to manage the inherent complexity within an Effects Based Plan through a combination of rigorous staff processes and focused guidance from the Commander; and (2) the advantage of multi-disciplinary staff cells concerned with distinct Battlespace Actors (e.g. Red, Blue) over distinct Plans and Analysis teams. At a time when the UK military is developing its Effects Based Approach at the operational level of command, it is believed that these lessons can be used directly to inform best practice at the UK Joint Force Headquarters.