Navigating Complexity: A Guide to the Seven Step Military Problem Solving Process

As both a veteran and a business leader, I’ve come to appreciate the robust analytical frameworks the military employs to tackle complex problems The seven step military problem solving process is one such structured methodology used extensively within the armed forces In this post, I’ll provide a comprehensive overview of this sequential technique and demonstrate how it can be applied in civilian contexts as well.

Developed to enable military units to dissect multifaceted missions, this seven step protocol serves as a decision making algorithm. By breaking down problems into smaller logical sub-steps, this process aims to methodically arrive at optimal solutions. It equips teams to thoroughly assess situations, weigh alternatives and devise high probability of success courses of action.

While initially created for combat operations, the military problem solving process has much broader applicability. In fact, it aligns well with common project management approaches used in the corporate sphere. As such, this standardized method can benefit businesses seeking to streamline their decision making.

Let’s now dive into the seven steps that comprise this structured analytical approach

Step 1 – Receiving the Mission

This phase focuses on clearly defining the problem at hand and understanding associated constraints. Key activities include:

• Gathering all relevant details about the issue from stakeholders
• Determining known facts as well as uncertainties
• Identifying constraints like deadlines, budgets and resources
• Specifying any limiting parameters that bound the solution space

A concise one sentence mission statement is formulated encapsulating the problem This mission statement becomes the north star guiding subsequent analysis

Step 2 – Analyzing the Mission

Here the objective is to thoroughly decompose the mission to reveal its constituent components. This involves:

• Breaking down the mission into key constituent tasks
• Determining mission requirements and critical vulnerabilities
• Identifying assets and capabilities available
• Uncovering obstacles that may hinder mission success
• Assessing operational risks across areas like logistics and communications

A comprehensive understanding of all elements, relationships and uncertainties is developed.

Step 3 – Developing a Course of Action

This step focuses on identifying possible ways to accomplish the mission based on the analysis. Activities include:

• Brainstorming creative alternatives to achieve mission goals
• Ensuring compliance with parameters and constraints
• Developing a scheme of maneuver that maps how the mission will unfold over space and time
• Describing necessary actions involved in executing the course of action
• Considering contingency plans and backups in case things go awry

At least two distinct courses of action are outlined to provide options to choose from subsequently.

Step 4 – Analyzing the Course of Action

Here the aim is to rigorously evaluate the merits and demerits of each proposed course of action. Key tasks involve:

• Using tactical decision games to simulate how each course may play out
• Determining additional resources required for successful implementation
• Revealing risks and weak points within each plan through war-gaming
• Assessing the logistical feasibility of execution
• Identifying contingency measures to address anticipated friction

This analysis shapes a clearer picture of the viability of the various courses of action.

Step 5 – Comparing Different Courses of Action

The goal of this step is to directly compare alternative courses of action against each other using the analysis conducted. This includes:

• Developing criteria to judge the effectiveness of each course of action
• Using a decision matrix to systematically assess pros and cons
• Determining which course of action best accomplishes the mission
• Identifying the course of action with the highest probability of success

The optimal course of action that should be adopted going forward is identified.

Step 6 – Getting Approval for the Optimal Course of Action

Here the focus is on securing buy-in from key stakeholders on the recommended course of action. This involves:

• Briefing leadership on the merits of the selected course of action
• Explaining analysis conducted and rationale for choice
• Justifying additional resources required for successful implementation
• Incorporating leadership guidance into final plan

Formal approval of the course of action sets the stage for execution.

Step 7 – Producing and Disseminating Orders

The final step entails developing a coordinated plan to implement the approved course of action. Tasks include:

• Documenting the complete mission plan including execution timeline
• Creating information packets tailored for each subunit
• Communicating orders and intent throughout the organization
• Rehearsing the plan and troubleshooting issues
• Ensuring all players understand their individual roles

The organization is aligned to undertake the mission collaboratively.

And that wraps up the seven steps comprising the military problem solving process! Next let’s examine how this structured methodology can be applied in civilian settings.

Applying the Military Problem Solving Process in Business

While created for complex combat missions, this sequential framework is also extremely relevant for tackling business challenges. Mapping typical business activities to the seven steps illustrates the practical value of this process:

Step 1 – Receiving the Mission

Consider the key project charter or business issue that must be addressed as the mission.

Step 2 – Analyzing the Mission

Conduct market research, data analysis, risk assessment etc. to deeply understand the issue.

Step 3 – Developing a Course of Action

Formulate alternative strategies or plans to address the business need.

Step 4 – Analyzing the Course of Action

Use techniques like SWOT analysis to identify strengths and weaknesses of each approach.

Step 5 – Comparing Different Courses of Action

Evaluate feasibility and benefits of alternatives using methodology like weighted scoring model.

Step 6 – Getting Approval for the Optimal Course of Action

Pitch proposed plan to leadership and secure buy-in.

Step 7 – Producing and Disseminating Orders

Create detailed project plan and communicate tasks across the organization.

As illustrated above, the structured military problem solving process integrates well with standard business practices. The principles and techniques it espouses can augment business decision making.

Let’s now examine some specific advantages this methodology offers:

1. Enables a Structured Analytical Approach

The step-by-step sequence imposes logical discipline to analyze complex problems systematically.

2. Facilitates Thorough Understanding

The emphasis on completely deconstructing the problem leads to insights into root causes.

3. Stimulates Innovative Thinking

The requirement to develop diverse courses of action spurs creative solutions.

4. Reduces Biases

The data-driven comparative analysis minimizes subjective judgments and assumptions.

5. Drives Evaluation Rigor

The war gaming and decision matrix techniques ensure rigorous evaluation of alternatives.

6. Creates Detailed Implementation Plan

The process naturally produces a robust project plan for successful execution.

Above all, this methodology prevents haphazard “seat of the pants” planning by anchoring decision making in a rigorous step-by-step sequence. While initially developed for military scenarios, the core principles clearly translate to tackling business challenges.

In closing, the seven step military problem solving process is a time-tested analytical framework honed over decades in complex operational environments. Mastering this structured methodology can aid any leader or organization in thinking through critical decisions thoroughly, creatively and objectively. The visual below summarizes the process:

![7 Step Military Problem Solving Process][]

So next time you encounter a thorny mission critical challenge, consider borrowing a page from the military playbook and employ this robust step-by-step approach to arrive at the optimal solution!