This chapter examines key issues in the use of defence programmes and the programming process. For general programme management issues{\textemdash}performance architecture, alignment with higher level vision, goals and objectives, management of time and cost, leadership and accountability, etc.{\textemdash}the reader may refer to a number of published works and online resources. This chapter is focused on one specific aspect of programme-based force development, namely the programme structure {\textendash} the key for providing capability orientation of the force development process. The chapter examines principles and practices of programme-based force development which, as shown bellow, is equivalent to programme-based defence resource management. It outlines the reasons behind the use of programmes and programming, shows what a good programme decision is and how it depends on the design of a programme structure, and singles out key activities in a programme management process and the links among them. In the concluding part, the main challenges in the successful design and implementation of programme-based force development in transition countries is briefly examined.
}, year = {2009}, journal = {Defence Management: An Introduction}, chapter = {3}, pages = {75-92}, publisher = {Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces}, address = {Geneva}, language = {eng}, }