If the article you read discussed the synchronization aspect specifically, it likely highlighted the most common failure in planning:

The is a critical decision-support tool used to relate forces and their actions to one another in time, space, and purpose. By integrating activities across various warfighting functions, it allows commanders to converge combat power and achieve decisive results. What is an Army Synchronization Matrix?

To use the template effectively, follow these steps:

To get the most out of your Army Synchronization Matrix, follow these best practices:

Always reserve a prominent row near the top for . Synchronizing your forces without plotting the predicted enemy reactions ruins the utility of a wargame. How to Build a Field-Verified Matrix in Excel

The rows are organized by the 7 Warfighting Functions (WfF) and command elements. This ensures every asset is synchronized with the maneuver plan.

During the war-game, the staff operationalizes the commander’s intent. As the capturing mechanism for the war-game, the synchronization matrix tracks: What the Red Team is doing at a specific time.

: Assigning specific duties to Major Subordinate Commands (MSCs).

Creating a basic matrix in Excel is straightforward:

Once the synchronization matrix is verified and finalized in Excel, it serves two critical purposes:

Merge cells horizontally to denote broad operational phases. (e.g., Merge Columns B through E and label it "Phase III: Seize").

Use subtle, standard military color coding to differentiate operational phases. For example: Phase I (Preparation): Light Gray Phase II (Shaping Operations): Light Blue Phase III (Decisive Operations): Light Green or Tan Phase IV (Stabilization): Light Yellow

LOGPAC schedules, casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) routes, and resupply points.

Every military computer equipped with standard enterprise software can run Excel, ensuring seamless sharing down to company levels.

If you are currently preparing for an upcoming exercise or deployment, I can help you refine your planning products. Let me know:

Avoid micro-managing individual soldier actions.