ATP-5-0-2-1 Staff Reference Guide Volume 1 Download
Page 162 of 440
Chapter 4 146 ATP 5-0.2-1 07 December 2020 THE RAPID DECISION-MAKING AND SYNCHRONIZATION PROCESS 4-29. The material in this section is derived from FM 6-0. 4-30. The rapid decision-making and synchronization process (RDSP) is a technique that commanders and staffs commonly use during execution. While identified here with a specific name and method, the approach is not new; its use in the Army is well established. Commanders and staffs develop this capability through training and practice. When using this technique, the following considerations apply— "Rapid" is often more important than "process". Much of it may be mental rather than written. RDSP should become a battle drill for the current operations integration cells, future operations cells, or both. 4-31. While the military decision-making process (MDMP) seeks the optimal solution, the RDSP seeks a timely and effective solution within the commander's intent, mission, and concept of operations. Operational and mission variables continually change during execution. This often invalidates or weakens courses of action (COAs) and decision criteria before leaders can make a decision. Under the RDSP, leaders combine their experience and intuition to quickly reach situational understanding. Based on this, they develop and refine workable COAs. 4-32. RDSP facilitates continuous integration and synchronization of the warfighting functions to address ever-changing situations. It meets the following criteria for effective decision making during execution: Comprehensive—integrates all warfighting functions. It is not limited to any single warfighting function. Supportive—ensures all actions support the DO by relating them to the commander's intent and concept of operations. Responsive—allows rapid changes to the order or mission. Continuous—allows commanders to react immediately to opportunities and threats. 4-33. The RDSP is based on an existing order and the commander's priorities as expressed in the order. The most important of these control measures are the commander's intent, concept of operations, and commander's CCIRs. RDSP includes five steps: Compare the current situation to the order. Determine that a decision, and what type, is required. Develop a COA. Refine and validate the COA. Implement. Leaders may perform the first two steps in any order, including concurrently. The last three steps are performed interactively until commanders identify an acceptable COA. Figure 4-2 depicts the RDSP. Figure 4-2. The rapid decision-making process