Doctrine, Organization, Training, Material, Leadership and Education, Personnel,

DOTMLPF — Doctrine, Organization, Training, Materiel, Leadership, Personnel, Facilities

DOTMLPF Acronym

The acronym DOTMLPF is used by the Department of Defense to describe a thought process that considers a broad spectrum of elements or requirements to generate informed, conclusive solutions to:

Problems
Future requirements
Strategic direction
Performance improvement

DOTMLPF Definition

DOTMLPF is defined as a process that considers solutions involving any combination of these elements.

Mnemonic for Planners

DOTMLPF serves as a valuable mnemonic for staff planners to consider for certain issues prior to undertaking new efforts.

Combatant Commander Application

Because combatant commanders define requirements in consultation with the Office of the Secretary of Defense, they are able to:

Consider gaps in the context of strategic direction for the U.S. Armed Forces
Influence the direction of requirements earlier in the acquisition process

DOTMLPF Letter Breakdown

DOTMLPF Breakdown

Here is an example of how DOTMLPF would be interpreted in the military context:

D — Doctrine
O — Organization
T — Training
M — Materiel
L — Leadership and Education
P — Personnel
F — Facilities

Doctrine

The way we fight (emphasizing maneuver warfare, combined air-ground campaigns).

Organization

How we organize the fight (divisions, air wings, task forces).

Training

How we prepare to fight tactically:

Basic military training
Advanced individual training
Unit training
Joint exercises

Materiel

All the 'stuff' necessary to equip the forces (weapons, spares) so we can operate effectively.

Leadership and Education

How we prepare leaders to lead the fight from squad leaders to four stars (professional development).

Personnel

Availability of qualified people for:

Peacetime
Wartime
Various contingency operations

Facilities

Real property, installations, and industrial facilities (government owned ammunition production facilities) that support the forces.