Which requirement is NOT a characteristic of the MER?

The correct answer identifies that detailing vacancies in personnel is not a characteristic of the MER, or manpower efficiency report. The MER primarily serves as a strategic instrument that helps in decision-making related to force structure and personnel requirements. It is focused on mission-essential personnel needs and provides a comprehensive overview of those requirements while also functioning as a vital resource for commanders.

In contrast, the other characteristics highlight the purpose and utility of the MER. It acts as a decision-making tool that enables leaders to assess and allocate resources effectively based on operational demands. Moreover, the MER does outline mission-essential personnel requirements, which directly relate to planning and executing specific missions. The classification of the MER as not being a requirements document is also significant, as it implies that while the MER contains critical information for staffing, it does not serve as a traditional document that lays out formal personnel requests or vacancies explicitly. Thus, the focus of the MER is more on requirements than on detailing existing vacancies.