The paper examines the concept of operational synchronization to determine how the concept should be portrayed in the upcoming revision of FM 100-5, Operations. This study first examines implications of theory of the operational art on the concept of synchronization. Next, the paper examines the historical development and current doctrinal procedures as outlined in FM 100-5. The current version of operational synchronization is then analyzed using six criteria: time-medium-force windows of effects, operational objectives, sequencing, flexibility, economy of force, and future-orientation. The results of this doctrinal examination are used to suggest some refinements to the concept of operational synchronization and demonstrate them using a synchronization planning methodology. The author concludes with some implications for the development of the concept of operational synchronization in the upcoming revision of FM 100-5. Several conclusions are drawn from this research. First, synchronization of effects and actions appears to be the "heart" of AirLand Battle doctrine and operational art. Next, the current concept is most useful at the tactical level in the JCS-defined operational state of war. Even so, this concept is a good starting point for an umbrella concept that applies to the operational artist. A more holistic view of actions and effects needs to be built into the present concept. The author suggests the concept of time-medium-force windows better portrays effects at the operational level. These windows of effects can even be used in synchronizing effects at the tactical level. The revised concept also needs to incorporate space, EW, and psyops mediums. It also needs to address the impact of civilian agencies in the operational artist's area of operations. The paper also contains some other conclusions and implications. Key JCS manuals do not address the synchronization concept. Also, the development of synchronization as an Army doctrinal concept parallels the development of the operational art. The author also suggests that a campaign planning process can be built around planning for and synchronizing first effects, then actions. Joint doctrine writers and other services should consider incorporating this concept into their doctrine. Also, the TRADOC Operational Operating Systems may be useful tools for the operational artist. Finally, more study remains to be done in this area. Some topics that need to be considered are measurement of effects, delineation of medium boundaries, existence of a vertical hierarchy of doctrine in the DoD, and linkages of FM 100-5 to JCS doctrine and other Army doctrine.

ADA 233998 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)