In JPPA, which planning element articulates what is expected to be accomplished?

In the Joint Planning Process, the planning element that articulates what is expected to be accomplished is Mission Analysis. During this phase, planners assess the situation, identify tasks, and clarify objectives. It serves to understand the problem and develop a clear picture of the required outcomes to achieve the desired end state.

Mission Analysis examines the operational environment, evaluates friendly capabilities and limitations, and considers adversary actions. This thorough understanding allows planners to define the mission in a way that aligns with strategic objectives. It lays the groundwork for all subsequent planning elements, ensuring that goals are clearly articulated and understood by all stakeholders involved in the operation.

The other options, while important in the planning process, do not specifically focus on defining what is expected to be accomplished in the same way that Mission Analysis does. Operational Guidance provides broad direction, Force Structuring pertains to organizing and allocating resources effectively, and Execution Criteria establishes how success will be measured post-execution. These elements are informed by the findings from the Mission Analysis, which is why it is the key component related to articulating expected accomplishments.