FM 5-0, The Operations Process - Federation of American Scientists

Appendix G
Running Estimates
This appendix defines the running estimate and describes how the commander and
members of the staff build and maintain their running estimates throughout the
operations process. This appendix provides a generic running estimate format
modified by the commander and each staff section to fit their functional area. See
JP 5-0 for information on joint estimates.
TYPES OF RUNNING ESTIMATES
G-1. A running estimate is the continuous assessment of the current situation used to determine if
the current operation is proceeding according to the commander’s intent and if planned future
operations are supportable. The commander and each staff section maintain a running estimate. In their
running estimates, the commander and each staff section continuously consider the effects of new
information and update the following:
• Facts.
• Assumptions.
• Friendly force status.
• Enemy activities and capabilities.
• Civil considerations.
• Conclusions and recommendations.
G-2. Commanders maintain their running estimates to consolidate their understanding and visualization of
an operation. The commander’s running estimate includes a summary of the problem and integrates
information and knowledge of the staff’s and subordinate commanders’ running estimates.
G-3. Building and maintaining running estimates is a primary task of each staff section. The running
estimate helps the staff to track and record pertinent information as well as to provide recommendations to
commanders. Running estimates represent the analysis and expert opinion of each staff section by
functional area. Running estimates are maintained throughout the operations process to assist commanders
and staffs in the exercise of command and control.
G-4. Each staff section and command post functional cell maintains a running estimate focused on how
their specific areas of expertise are postured to support future operations. Because an estimate may be
needed at any time, running estimates must be developed, revised, updated, and maintained continuously
while in garrison and during operations. While in garrison, staffs must maintain a running estimate on
friendly capabilities.
ESSENTIAL QUALITIES OF RUNNING ESTIMATES
G-5. A comprehensive running estimate addresses all aspects of operations and contains both facts and
assumptions based on the staff’s experience within a specific area of expertise. Figure G-1 on page G-2
provides the base format for a running estimate that parallels the planning process. Each staff section
modifies it to account for their specific functional areas. All running estimates cover essential facts and
assumptions including a summary of the current situation by the mission variables, conclusions, and
recommendations. Once they complete the plan, commanders and staff sections continuously update their
estimates.
26 March 2010 FM 5-0 G-1