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Critics of effects-based operations think the concept relies on perfect information, advanced technology, and precise air attack; therefore, it is an unachievable, narrowly focused warfighting panacea that ignores the fog and friction of war. This paper argues that effects-based operations is a theory that helps determine how to use the elements of power to attain national security objectives. Effects-based operations does not depend on information dominance, high- end warfare, or even precision strike to make it useful and as a theory, it is applicable across the spectrum of conflict. The paper defines effects-based operations theory and explains how it helps develop and assess strategy within the constraints of information analysis and acceptable risk. It describes how to use effects-based operations at the operational level with emphasis on interagency coordination, effects-based mission planning, and continuous assessment. Finally, the paper addresses how the Air Force should use effects-based operations to define airpower's role in joint warfighting, employ airpower in a gradual context, and develop better joint air operations plans.