Introduction to Air Force EPB/OPB Narrative Builder

The Air Force EPB/OPB Narrative Builder is designed to streamline the creation of Enlisted and Officer Performance Briefs by transitioning from traditional bullet-writing to narrative-style performance statements. Its purpose is to assist Airmen in capturing their performance accurately and efficiently within the constraints of Major Performance Areas (MPAs) and Airman Leadership Qualities (ALQs) as outlined by DAFI 36-2406. By focusing on clarity, impact, and results, the tool helps Airmen effectively communicate their contributions and leadership in a way that is understandable by promotion boards, which often have limited time to review records. For example, an Airman might use the builder to transform a raw list of accomplishments into a polished performance statement, such as converting technical jargon into plain language that highlights mission impact. This shift reflects the broader change in the Air Force's evaluation culture, which now emphasizes narrative over bullet formats to enhance the readability and effectiveness of feedback.

Main Functions of Air Force EPB/OPB Narrative Builder

  • Creating Performance Statements

    Example Example

    An NCO can input their accomplishments in managing a training program, and the tool will generate concise statements highlighting their leadership and the impact on mission readiness.

    Example Scenario

    During an annual evaluation period, an Airman needs to summarize their work on a large-scale training program. The builder helps translate their achievements into a narrative format that aligns with the ALQs and focuses on measurable impacts.

  • Duty Descriptions

    Example Example

    A Senior NCO uses the tool to describe their role as the head of a logistics team, detailing their scope of responsibility, resources managed, and key partnerships.

    Example Scenario

    When preparing for a promotion board, the Airman can utilize the builder to ensure that their duty description accurately reflects their leadership role and contributions in a clear and impactful way.

  • Higher-Level Reviewer Assessment

    Example Example

    The builder provides guidance on writing higher-level assessments, including overall performance, next duty recommendations, and education determinations.

    Example Scenario

    An officer submitting an OPB for review can use the tool to develop a final assessment that summarizes their leadership, recommends future roles, and highlights any advanced education that positions them for the next step in their career.

Ideal Users of Air Force EPB/OPB Narrative Builder

  • Enlisted Airmen (E5-E9)

    Enlisted members preparing for promotion boards or evaluations benefit from the builder by using it to structure their narratives according to MPAs and ALQs. The tool helps them articulate their leadership, mission impact, and resource management in a way that stands out to board members, who may only have a few minutes to review their records.

  • Officers (O1-O6)

    Officers needing to draft Officer Performance Briefs can use the builder to create coherent narratives that summarize their mission execution, leadership, and innovation. This is particularly valuable for officers seeking to highlight their readiness for higher command or specialized roles, as the tool ensures their assessments align with Air Force standards.

How to Use Air Force EPB/OPB Narrative Builder

  • Visit aichatonline.org

    Start by visiting aichatonline.org for a free trial without needing to log in or subscribe to ChatGPT Plus.

  • Understand the Major Performance Areas (MPAs) and Airman Leadership Qualities (ALQs)

    Familiarize yourself with the four MPAs: Executing the Mission, Leading People, Managing Resources, and Improving the Unit. Review the ALQs to understand the expectations for performance statements.

  • Prepare Your Data

    Gather relevant performance data, previous evaluations, and awards. Review available ALQ Writing Guides and related resources to ensure alignment with current Air Force standards.

  • Use the Tool

    Input the gathered data into the tool, focusing on action statements that reflect your duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments. Ensure each narrative is concise, no longer than 350 characters.

  • Review and Refine

    Review the generated narratives for clarity and alignment with the ALQs. Refine as necessary to ensure accuracy, readability, and impact before submission.

  • Career Advancement
  • Performance Evaluations
  • Leadership Assessment
  • Military Appraisals
  • Narrative Writing

Air Force EPB/OPB Narrative Builder Q&A

  • What is the main function of the Air Force EPB/OPB Narrative Builder?

    The tool assists in creating concise, impactful narratives for performance evaluations by synthesizing Airman Leadership Qualities (ALQs) and Major Performance Areas (MPAs) into clear, actionable statements.

  • How does the tool help with performance evaluations?

    It helps structure performance statements around key MPAs and ALQs, ensuring that narratives are concise, aligned with Air Force standards, and highlight the most critical achievements.

  • Can the tool be used for both enlisted and officer performance briefs?

    Yes, the tool is designed to cater to both enlisted and officer performance briefs, providing tailored guidance based on rank, duties, and leadership expectations.

  • Is there any specific format or character limit for the narratives?

    Yes, narratives should not exceed 350 characters for MPA blocks and 250 characters for higher-level reviewer assessments, ensuring that they are concise and to the point.

  • What resources should I have before using the tool?

    Gather previous performance data, ALQ Writing Guides, and any relevant evaluations or awards. This information will help you create accurate and comprehensive narratives.