What should be the focus during 'Course of Action Analysis'?

During the 'Course of Action Analysis' phase of the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP), the primary focus is on evaluating each course of action (COA) for its strengths, weaknesses, and overall effectiveness. This evaluation is critical for understanding how well each COA aligns with the mission objectives and the operational environment. It enables decision-makers to compare and contrast different COAs, assessing their potential outcomes and risks involved.

Analyzing the strengths allows commanders to identify what each COA can do effectively, potentially capitalizing on certain advantages. Conversely, examining weaknesses helps to pinpoint vulnerabilities or challenges that may arise with each COA. The effectiveness evaluation estimates whether the proposed methods will accomplish the desired end state. This thorough analysis ensures that the final decision is based on a clear understanding of how each COA would function in real-world scenarios, thereby improving the overall success of the mission.