What is a function of the developed COA evaluation criteria?

The developed Course of Action (COA) evaluation criteria play a crucial role in the Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP) by providing a structured framework to assess the feasibility, acceptability, suitability, and risk involved in each COA. By weighing each COA against these screening criteria, commanders and their planning teams can systematically determine which options are viable and align best with the overall mission objectives. This process ensures that decisions are made based on clear, consistent, and objective standards, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the evaluation.

The evaluation criteria help to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each COA, allowing for informed decision-making that is grounded in operational realities. This prevents arbitrary or subjective judgments and focuses attention on the specific factors that will impact mission success. Therefore, the primary function of the developed COA evaluation criteria is to facilitate a thorough comparison of each option against established benchmarks, guiding planners toward the most promising courses of action.