[1][2] The JCIDS intent for KPPs is to have a few measures stated where the acquisition product either meets the stated performance measure or else the program will be considered a failure[3] per instructions CJCSI 3170.01H – Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System.
The term is defined as "Performance attributes of a system considered critical to the development of an effective military capability.
A KPP normally has a threshold representing the minimum acceptable value achievable at low-to-moderate risk, and an objective, representing the desired operational goal but at higher risk in cost, schedule, and performance.
KPPs are considered Measures of Performance (MOPs) by the operational test community.
"[4] Commentary notes that metrics must be chosen carefully, and that they are hard to define and apply throughout a projects life cycle.