Military measures of success must be established at the beginning of a mission in order to constantly evaluate progress, to manage expectations, and facilitate transitions from one phase of an operation to the next. But how does the military determine its measure of success in the absence of clearly define strategic objectives? Success is the achievement or accomplishment of a particular mission. Even in regards to phases of military operations, success assumes that we are at or near the completion of that particular phase or mission. However, effectiveness not only considers the completion of a mission but the efficiency of the execution as well. Joint Publication 3-57 describes measures of effectiveness (MOE) in military operations as “tools used to measure results achieved in the overall mission and execution of assigned tasks, compared to stated strategic and operational objectives.” MOE assist commanders in determining the progress of the mission. The bottom line is whether military efforts are achieving the desired result. MOE provide commanders and higher authorities with a baseline of indicators on how well the military achieves those goals. These measures are situational and usually require adjustment as the situation changes. An effective MOE contributes to mission effectiveness by identifying effective points at which to shift resources, transition to different phases, or alter or terminate the mission. MOE also assist the commander in determining when of the mission has been accomplished.

Developing Measures-of-Effectiveness

“It is enough to say that the enemy’s withdrawal from the battlefield is the sign of victory… [For] a victory aimed at weakening the enemy’s fighting forces is different from one that is only meant to seize a certain position.” Carl Von Clausewitz – On War (p. 142)

There is no comprehensive checklist for developing MOE. It will vary according to the mission. However, commanders should keep certain factors in mind when developing and using MOE. Joint Publication 3-57 provides planners with points to consider when developing MOE:

-They should be appropriate to the objectives. Are we getting the desired result?

-They must be Mission-related. If the mission is hurricane relief, then the MOE should help evaluate improvements in living standards, mortality rates, and other related areas.

-They must be measurable and reflect clear established criteria and disseminated to prevent misinterpretation.