JP 3-0, page 63

Joint Functions III-11 (2) Categories. Priority intelligence requirements (PIRs) and friendly force information requirements (FFIRs) constitute the total list of CCIRs. (a) PIRs focus on the enemy or adversary and the operational environment and drive intelligence collection and production requirements. All staff sections can recommend potential PIRs that they believe meet the JFC’s guidance. However, the joint force J-2 has overall staff responsibility for consolidating PIR nominations and for providing the staff recommendation to the commander. JFC-approved PIRs are automatically CCIRs. PIRs are continuously updated as they are addressed during the intelligence collection and production efforts. PIRs are reviewed during the transition of each operational phase to ensure they are still relevant. For more information on PIRs, see JP 2-0, Joint Intelligence. (b) FFIRs focus on information the JFC must have to assess the status of the friendly force and supporting capabilities. All staff sections can recommend potential FFIRs that they believe meet the JFC’s guidance. The plans directorate of a joint staff (J-5) typically has overall staff responsibility for consolidating FFIR nominations and for providing the staff recommendation to the commander during planning prior to execution. During execution, the joint force J-3 is responsible for consolidating these nominations and providing the recommendation for FFIRs that relate to current operations. However, the J-5 remains responsible for consolidating nominations and recommending FFIRs related to the future plans effort. JFC-approved FFIRs are automatically CCIRs. i. Battle Rhythm. The HQ battle rhythm is its daily operations cycle of briefings, meetings, and report requirements. A stable battle rhythm facilitates effective decision making, efficient staff actions, and management of information within the HQ and with higher, supporting, and subordinate HQ. The commander and staff should design a battle rhythm that minimizes meeting requirements while providing the necessary venues for command and staff interaction internal to the joint force HQ and with subordinate commands. Joint and component HQ’s battle rhythms should be synchronized to accommodate operations in multiple time zones and the battle rhythm needs of higher, subordinate, and adjacent commands. Other factors such as planning, decision, and operating cycles (i.e., intelligence collection, targeting, and air tasking order cycles) influence the battle rhythm. Further, meetings of the necessary staff organizations must be synchronized. The chief of staff normally manages the joint force HQ’s battle rhythm. When coordinating with civilian USG departments and agencies, the joint force HQ should consider that those organizations often have limited capabilities and restricted access to some information. j. Creating Shared Understanding. In one sense, decisions are the most important products of the C2 function, because they guide the force toward objectives and mission accomplishment. Commanders and staff require not only information to make these decisions, but also the knowledge and understanding that results in the wisdom essential to sound decision making (Figure III-2).