This monograph discusses the advantage of using a functional approach to planning. The January 1997 Coordinating Draft of FM 100-5 Operations introduces core functions to the fundamentals of Army operations. Core functions are the fundamental actions of a military force. The monograph first describes the proposed core functions. Following this description, relevant writings of military theorists are reviewed along with approved doctrine. Current doctrine prescribes a system rather than functional method of planning. The core functions and the Battlefield Operating Systems (BOS)/Operational Operating Systems (OOS) are analyzed to determine their utility in planning. They are then compared to determine which best supports commanders and planners as they design operations to achieve assigned objectives. The monograph concludes that the core functions are useful to Army planners. They provide a simple and holistic guide to the development of creative operational concepts. The core functions are more adaptable to the broad range of army units and missions than the operating systems. They grow with the leader and evolve with the military force.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.