Parallel Planning: How Digital Information Systems can Improve the Combat Decision-Making Process.
Abstract
This monograph discusses the techniques and procedures units can use to make improvements in the combat decision-making process (CDMP) by using the digital systems available in the Force XXI brigade to facilitate parallel planning. The central question of this monograph is: How can the digital information systems available in the Force XXI brigade facilitate parallel planning in the CDMP? In answering this question, the monograph will present techniques and procedures maneuver brigades can employ within the combat decision-making process to allow subordinate battalions and companies to plan almost simultaneously with the brigade headquarters. These include a series of warning orders and digital information updates, as well as techniques for collaboration both inter and intra-echelon, to enhance the synchronization of the plans. The monograph will focus on parallel planning within the CDMP of the maneuver brigade and its subordinate task forces and companies. The monograph will show how using the digital systems to enhance the parallel planning process will improve both the efficiency and effectiveness of the brigade CDMP. The monograph is organized into four chapters. Chapter one is the introduction. In chapter two, the monograph briefly describes the combat decision-making process (CDMP), with the assumption that the reader is already familiar with the military decision-making process in general. It defines the one-third/two-thirds rule and explains how it may not make the most efficient use of the time available for planning. Chapter two then defines parallel and collaborative planning, and finally, describes the capabilities of the digital systems available to the Force XXI brigade. Chapter three presents the parallel and collaborative process for planning using the digital systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 14, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA309691
Entities
People
- Thomas D. Mayfield Iii
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College