JP 3-60, page 95

B-1 APPENDIX B TARGETING AUTOMATION 1. Overview a. Targeting automation is the use of computer systems, applications, and database technologies to speed the accurate development, recording, dissemination, and usage of information that systematically links objectives and guidance with targeting and its assessment. Targeting automation is decision support technology. To optimize support to the joint force, commanders should work to automate the steps in the targeting cycle, where possible, in support of deliberate and dynamic targeting while continuing to emphasize due diligence in analysis. This appendix addresses current targeting automation capabilities necessary for contingency and crisis action planning. It details how targeting automation occurs within the joint targeting cycle and concludes with a summary discussion of implications for targeting automation. b. Automating targeting has historically been a challenge. The definition of what is considered a target by automation systems and databases has evolved from only fixed facilities to include equipment, individuals, organizations, and cyberspace targets. Similarly, requirements for targeting automation have been redefined by a need to accommodate a variety of weapon and capability options, ranging across a variety of means to create lethal or nonlethal effects. c. At the same time, computer science has rapidly advanced through multiple generations of operating systems and an exponential increase in computing capacity, storage, and network bandwidth. Moreover, the business processes of targeting have adapted to incorporate the lessons learned from numerous operations and exercises as well as the evolution of targeting doctrine and the national use of military power. d. The challenges of targeting automation are twofold: to ensure automation occurs in a standardized manner, allowing communications between targeting entities to remain clear, and to avoid the temptation to rely on automation for targeting expertise. Although automation provides speed of function, it is still incumbent on the targeteer to fully comprehend foundational targeting concepts. 2. Automating the Joint Targeting Process a. The essence of targeting automation is its ability to assist a targeteer in developing, saving, and disseminating the details of targeting decisions. Targeting automation underpins the orderly accumulation and flow of information that ‘connects the dots’ of the joint targeting process. Joint targeting is a series of phased activities that plan, execute, monitor, and assess the application of targeting to achieve military objectives. It is applied in numerous contexts ranging from contingency planning through tactical execution. b. Intelligence, operations, and plans must work together as a cohesive team in a collaborative environment to establish a common targeting capability. The J-2, J-3, J-5, force structure, resource, and assessment directorate of a JS, interagency and multinational