Arts and Social Sciences Journal

Using Effects-Based Thinking as an Alternative Method to Center of Gravity Analysis in the Planning and Execution of Military Joint Operations

Abstract

Ole Boe

The Norwegian Armed Forces is taking part in military joint operations on an international basis. When planning and executing military joint operations, a knowledge management strategy known as center of gravity analysis is often used. Given the constant need to improve the processes involved in planning and executing military joint operations, the use of an alternative knowledge management strategy is proposed and discussed in this article. The alternative knowledge management strategy is referred to as effects-based thinking. Effects-based thinking can be said to be a more general method than the center of gravity analysis. For a professional community of practice such as the Norwegian Armed Forces, the use of effects-based thinking may simply be a more suitable knowledge management strategy.