This chapter examines key issues in the use of defence programmes and the programming process. For general programme management issues—performance architecture, alignment with higher level vision, goals and objectives, management of time and cost, leadership and accountability, etc.—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 – 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.