In which steps of the JOPP is concept development conducted?

Concept development in the Joint Operations Planning Process (JOPP) primarily takes place during Steps 3 through 6. This phase is crucial as it involves refining the initial planning guidance and detailed planning considerations.

During Step 3, planners develop specific courses of action (COAs) based on the commander's initial intent and situational understanding. It is here that the operational concepts start to take shape as different strategies are crafted to address the mission's objectives.

In Step 4, these COAs are further assessed and refined by evaluating their feasibility, acceptability, and suitability. This step is vital for ensuring that the concepts are realistic and aligned with available resources.

Step 5 takes the process a step further by comparing and analyzing these refined COAs against each other, facilitating the selection of the most effective approach.

Finally, in Step 6, the selected COA undergoes further development into a detailed plan. This includes considerations for resourcing, synchronization, and coordination, tightening the operational objectives and details of the chosen concept.

Thus, concept development occurs collaboratively across these steps, ensuring a comprehensive and effective operational framework is established prior to execution.