The Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP)

Hello, the discussion has presented some important facts about military decision-making process (MDMP). The process made up of different steps aimed at making informed decisions that will guide how operations will be carried out. I understand that dividing the steps further, helping analyze each situation deeply to make sure that the decisions to be made are the best, considering that there are chances of making wrong or trial decisions as it affects the security of a nation. The course of action (COA) is the third step, and it is made up of eight more steps. The third step deals with developing the mission statement of the department, including the intentions of the commander, forecasting estimates, and that helps in developing a revised planning guideline (Department of the Army, 2016). When making decisions, the military department involves the staff members through brainstorming, thus allowing the use of critical and creative thinking skills. Involving the soldiers is also a way of promoting motivation as the staff members feel valued, and their ideas considered when making decisions. 

I believe that communication is essential in every process of decisions making, and it should be two-way interaction. In COA, for example, the staff members will be communicated about the mission. It will be a guiding principle in all operations that will follow. When the soldiers are involved in making decisions, it is a way of developing their leadership skills. These are necessary, especially on missions where the soldiers may be required to act on their own accord without waiting to clarify what to do, especially in field missions. Military operations are complicated and demanding, and it is safe for the officers to be ready to make decisions on their own without waiting for the leader. Participation in COA enhances the soldier’s confidence, feeling that they can give ideas that would promote the safety of fellow soldiers and the entire nation. 

Reference 

Department of the Army. (2016). Commander and staff organization and operations (FM, 6-0). Retrieved from https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/ARN14843_FM_6-0_Incl_C2_FINAL_WEB.pdf