7 step military problem solving process

Thesoldiersproject is supported by its audience. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

All About the 7-Step Military Problem Solving Process

Written by Everett Bledsoe / Fact checked by Brain Bartell

In addition to power and strength, the military relies on quick and decisive thinking. Members in service must be able to think on their feet and craft solutions in the blink of an eye. Obviously, this is not easy to do. But it is not too far-fetched when you realize that countless lives depend on a single personnel’s decision and course of action.

As such, every recruit coming into the military is taught and trained about the 7-step military problem solving process. This systematic approach is believed to be the best way for military members to address any problems that they encounter.

In short, the 7 steps to solve problems are:

• Pinpoint the Problem
• Identify the Facts and Assumptions
• Craft Alternatives
• Analyze the Generated Alternatives
• Weigh Between the Generated Alternatives
• Make and Carry Out Your Final Decision
• Evaluate the Results From Your Decision

To make it easier for you to comprehend and follow along, we have elaborated on each of the above steps in this article. So, continue reading by scrolling down!

Table of Contents

Step 1: Pinpoint the Problem

Step 2: identify the facts and assumptions, step 3: craft alternatives, step 4: analyze the generated alternatives, step 5: weigh between the generated alternatives, step 6: make and carry out your final decision, step 7: evaluate the results from your decision, army problem solving & decision making process, seven step military problem solving process.

The first step is to ID the problem, which means recognizing and identifying what needs fixing. Needless to say, you cannot attempt to seek a solution without first knowing what has to be addressed. By pinpointing your problem, you will have a clear goal or end destination in mind. Only then can you come up with the right steps to take.

To effectively define the problem, ask yourself the 5Ws—who, what, where, and when. In detail:

• Who is affected? Who is involved?
• What is affected? What is in the overall picture?
• When is/did this happen?
• Where is/did this happen?

Always be crystal clear about the problem and try to view it in the most objective way as much as possible. Imagine you are the third person looking at It rather than from it. It also helps to organize your answers into a coherent and concise problem statement.

The next step is to ID the facts and assumptions. This entails that you get whatever additional information you can in the time that you have. Try to garner more facts than assumptions by reviewing all the possible factors, internal and external, and use them together with what you have thought out in the step above to determine the cause of the problem. You should also be aware of the nature and scope of the problem from this step.

From here, you take a sub-step: think about what you want the final result to be. This does not have to be complicated but it has to be very clear. For instance, one of your troop members may be lost and uncontactable. Your ultimate goal is to find him/her and return to your base together. Remember, having a wishy-washy end state will only make your problem solving process more difficult.

These first two steps constitute situation assessment, which serves as the basis for you to work towards the remaining steps of the military problem solving process.

Onto the third step, strive to develop as many potential solutions as possible. Here, you will have to exercise your imagining and visualizing skills. Brainstorm and refine any ideas simultaneously. Engage both critical and critical thinking in this step. If possible, take note of what you have come up with. Do not be hesitant and brush off any ideas.

Then, analyze your options. Consider all of your possible courses of action with all the available information that you have compiled in the previous steps. Take into account your experiences, intuitions, and emotions. This does not have to be a purely rational or mathematical procedure. Nevertheless, this does not mean that you are 100% guided by your instincts and emotions. You must have a good balance between the two.

This step naturally lends itself to the next: compare between your generated alternatives. Weigh between their respective pros and cons. In particular, look at their cost and benefit of success. Are there any limiting factors or potential for unintended consequences? Evaluate carefully and ask yourself a lot of questions. You can also consider using a table, T-chart, or matrix to compare visually.

Try to settle for the “best” solution or course of action that is both logical and feels “right”. Apart from picking the best, select two or three more workable solutions as backups. Keep them handy in case you need to refer back to them. During this process, you may merge ideas and mix-match bits and pieces—that’s perfectly fine!

Once you have made your decision, craft your action plans. Know the details—what exactly do you have to do to solve the problem? If it is a long-term problem that you have to address, set milestones and timelines with clear methods of measuring progress and success. On the other hand, if it is a short, instantaneous problem, communicate your plans clearly to anyone else involved. Be aware of the specifics and be brutally honest. Execute your course of action with care. But do not be rigid. If something happens out of the plan, be willing to adjust and adapt.

After your solution implementation, wrap up by assessing the results. Was it what you envisioned? Were there deviations? What did you take away? Answer all of the questions so you can be even more equipped for future endeavors. Think of it as a reflection stage. The 7 steps to problem solving in the military are a continuous process—you will be confronted with challenges over and over, so do not skip this strengthening step. It will further your skills and expertise to handle problems going forward.

Another set of seven steps that you may come across during your service is the army problem solving steps. Needless to say, this is applied to the army problem solving process.

• Receiving the Mission
• Analyzing the Mission
• Developing the Course of Action
• Analyzing the Course of Action
• Comparing the Course of Action
• Getting Approval for the Course of Action
• Producing, Disseminating, and Transitioning Orders

This is a part of the MDMP, short for the military decision making process. In each step, there are inputs and outputs. In general, it is more specific than the above set of steps.

These seven steps focus on collaborative planning and performance. Plus, set the stage for interactions between different military agents, including commanders, staff, headquarters, etc.

COA is an abbreviation for a course of action. Thus, these steps are relatively similar to the steps that we have gone through earlier; specifically steps two: mission analysis, three: COA development, four: COA analysis, and five: COA comparison. Like the previous seven steps, these are carried out sequentially but can be revisited when needed.

The main difference is that these 7 steps to problem solving in the army are more explicitly directed to junior personnel. Hence, the mentioning of orders from higher-ranks, the significant role of commanders, and the need to earn approval before execution.

A mnemonic that service members use to remember this process is M.A.D.A.C.A.P. for:

• A: Analysis

You might want to remember this for an exam at military school, at NCO, or soldier of the month board.

You can learn more about the MDMP here:

So, there you have it—the 7-step military problem solving process. You should now be aware of two different but equally important sets of steps to problem solving and decision making. If you have any follow-up questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments. We look forward to hearing from you!

I am Everett Bledsoe, taking on the responsibility of content producer for The Soldiers Project. My purpose in this project is to give honest reviews on the gear utilized and tested over time. Of course, you cannot go wrong when checking out our package of information and guide, too, as they come from reliable sources and years of experience.

career support

support to get a great job

• Career Development

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

In addition to power and strength, the military relies on quick and decisive thinking. Members in service must be able to think on their feet and craft solutions in the blink of an eye. Obviously, this is not easy to do. But it is not too far-fetched when you realize that countless lives depend on a single personnel’s decision and course of action.

As such, every recruit coming into the military is taught and trained about the 7-step military problem solving process. This systematic approach is believed to be the best way for military members to address any problems that they encounter.

To make it easier for you to comprehend and follow along, we have elaborated on each of the above steps in this article. So, continue reading by scrolling down!

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:

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

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

Formulate alternative strategies or plans to address the business need.

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

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

Pitch proposed plan to leadership and secure buy-in.

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!

Step 4: Analyze the Generated Alternatives

Then, analyze your options. Consider all of your possible courses of action with all the available information that you have compiled in the previous steps. Take into account your experiences, intuitions, and emotions. This does not have to be a purely rational or mathematical procedure. Nevertheless, this does not mean that you are 100% guided by your instincts and emotions. You must have a good balance between the two.

Step 1: Pinpoint the Problem

To effectively define the problem, ask yourself the 5Ws—who, what, where, and when. In detail:

• Who is affected? Who is involved?
• What is affected? What is in the overall picture?
• When is/did this happen?
• Where is/did this happen?

Always be crystal clear about the problem and try to view it in the most objective way as much as possible. Imagine you are the third person looking at It rather than from it. It also helps to organize your answers into a coherent and concise problem statement.

Army Problem Solving Process – MSL202 Lesson 04 – ROTC

What is the 7-step military solving process?

The seven-step military solving process is a structured method for identifying and overcoming obstacles. This approach can help military and civilian members alike quickly address problems and create effective solutions. Using this method can also help team members develop their collaboration, communication and critical-thinking abilities.

What are the 7 steps of the military problem solving process?

To define the 7 steps of the Military Problem Solving Process. To describe some of the Road Blocks to problem solving Click here to download the presentation. 1. Recognize And Define The Problem 2. Gather Facts And Make Assumptions 3. Define End States And Establish Criteria 4. Develop Possible Solutions 5. Analyze And Compare Possible Solutions 6.

What is the Army problem solving process?

Needless to say, this is applied to the army problem solving process. This is a part of the MDMP, short for the military decision making process. In each step, there are inputs and outputs. In general, it is more specific than the above set of steps. These seven steps focus on collaborative planning and performance.

What is the 7 step method of systems planning?

The one approach that is especially effective has been called the Seven Step Method of Systems Planning. It is rooted in previous Army doctrine and provides an intellectual vehicle to assist organizational leaders in solving command problems related to command climate, establishing a command vision leading to mission accomplishment.

Related posts:

• What Is Treasury Management? (With Definition and Benefits)
• RASCI: What It Is and How To Use It for Project Management
• Interview Question: “What’s the Most Difficult Decision You’ve Had to Make?”
• Blog : Is there a dress code for the modern paralegal?

Related Posts

How to calculate percentile rank step-by-step, i want to be a lawyer: a step-by-step guide to becoming an attorney, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 7 Steps in Problem Solving

The MDMP (Military Decision Making Process) and TLPs (Troop Leading Procedures) are both based on the Army Problem Solving Process , which is described in FM 22-100.  In this article, we will explore the sequence of steps that will help any leader work through a problem.  Here are the 7 Steps in Problem Solving.

#1. ID the Problem: This involves recognizing what the root problem really is and defining that problem precisely.  It is often easy to be distracted by the symptoms of a problem but it is essential to determine the root cause.  You can define the problem by asking yourself these questions:

• Who is affected?
• What is affected?
• When did it occur?
• Where is the problem?
• Why did it occur?

Also, consider the end state that you want.  How will things look when everything is done?

#2. ID Facts and Assumptions: Get whatever facts you can in the time you have.  Remember, facts are what you know about the situation.  Some good resources for facts are ARs, policies, and doctrine.  Assumptions are what you believe about the situation but do not have facts to support.  As a general rule, try to assume as little as possible.  Analyze the facts and assumptions you ID to determine the scope of the problem.

#3. Generate Alternatives: This is where you develop the ways to solve the problem.  Always try to develop more than one approach.  You can’t possibly ID the best solution without considering more than one alternative and these alternatives should have significant differences.  Sometimes, if time permits, include input from your peers and subordinates.  This brainstorming promotes a faster free flow of ideas and generally can avoid rejecting promising alternatives.

#4. Analyze the Alternatives:  Obvious, right?  However, many fail to ID the intended and unintended consequences, resources and other limitations and each alternative’s advantages and disadvantages.  Be sure to consider all your alternatives according to your screening and evaluation criteria (i.e. factors that a solution must have for you to consider it a feasible option).  If a COA fails to meet your screening criteria, reject it, regardless of its other advantages.

#5. Compare Alternatives: Evaluate each alternative’s cost and benefit of success.  Think past the immediate future.  How will this decision change things tomorrow?  Next week? Next year?  Compare your alternatives simultaneously if you can.  Try utilizing a table or matrix that will lay out each COA and how each compares to the evaluation criteria.

#6. Make and Execute Your Decision: To help you make a decision, it may be helpful to assign a numerical value to your criteria as a way of ranking them.  For most decisions, a quick review of the weighted criteria will be enough to reveal the best solution.  Make your decision, prepare a plan of action and put it into motion!

#7. Assess the Results: It isn’t over just because you made a decision.  After all, we all make mistakes.  You will need to monitor the execution of your plan and be prepared to change it as necessary.  This step can be made easier by establishing critical steps or milestones that must take place on time in order to guarantee success.  Follow up on results and make further adjustments as needed.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Think of a decision you have made recently.  Did you follow all these steps?  Would your decision have been different if you had?

Leave your comments below. If you have any questions, you can ask those here too.

Recommended Products

4 thoughts on “the 7 steps in problem solving”.

The 7 steps to solve problems are: pinpoint the problem, identify the eacts and assumptions, craft alternatives, analyze the generated alternatives, weigh between the generated alternatives, make and carry out your final decision, evaluate the results from your decision.

When problems arise it’s easy to panic and throw caution to the wind. An organized list like this can help you analyze the situation and make the best possible decisions. Keeping a rational mind is important and thinking of all the possible outcomes will help identify the risk vs. reward ratio.

This process makes solving problems so much simpler. I use the 7 Steps in Problem Solving in my business and civilian life too. It works great.

Thanks for the post.

This is a good summary about the problem solving process. One of the major issues I have observed with regard to leaders involved in the problem solving process is that leaders fail to understand or analyze the unintended consequences of their actions. Our military is currently experiencing a major downsizing. As a result Soldiers are being separated from service for issues that previously would have been seen as an honest mistake or as a learning experience for an immature Soldier. In paragraph one you state:

“How will things look when everything is done?” When Leaders ask themselves this question they must also understand that their actions or recommendations could result in the issue being removed from their level of responsibility. Let’s say a Soldier is consistently late to formation. In the past the leader may have recommended an Article 15 to get the Soldier’s attention. Previously a Soldier could survive an Article 15 and go on to have a successful and productive career.

Recommending an Article 15 in today’s environment is almost a guarantee the Soldier will be separated from service. Therefore it is incredibly important the leader understand the unintended consequences of their decisions. When they ask themselves “How will things look when everything is done?” If that visions includes the Soldier being retained in service they must seek other alternatives to correcting substandard performance such as: verbal counseling, written counseling, corrective training, revocation of privileges, local letters of reprimand, etc.

Fully understanding the consequences of your decisions and how they impact your subordinates ensures you are making a decision that is in the best interest of the Soldier and the Army. For more information on revocation of privileges read The Mentor- Everything you need to know about leadership and counseling. It is available at your local military clothing and sales store or online at GIpubs.com

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

What is the 7-step military problem-solving process?

The 7-step military problem-solving process is a systematic approach used by the military to address challenges and make decisions. This process involves identifying the problem, gathering information, developing criteria, generating possible solutions, analyzing and comparing solutions, making a decision, and implementing and assessing the decision.

What are the 7 steps of the military problem-solving process?

The 7 steps are: 1. Identify the problem, 2. Gather information, 3. Develop criteria, 4. Generate possible solutions, 5. Analyze and compare solutions, 6. Make a decision, and 7. Implement and assess the decision.

How can the military problem-solving process be applied in other contexts?

The process can be applied in various professional and personal settings to approach challenges and make informed decisions.

Why is the military problem-solving process important?

It helps military personnel effectively address complex issues, make sound decisions, and achieve mission success.

What are the benefits of using this problem-solving process?

The process promotes logical and methodical decision-making, reduces the likelihood of hasty or ill-informed choices, and increases the chances of successful outcomes.

Can the 7-step process be modified?

Yes, the process can be adapted to specific situations while maintaining its fundamental principles.

How does the military problem-solving process promote teamwork?

By involving multiple individuals in gathering information, generating solutions, and analyzing options, the process fosters a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

What role does leadership play in this problem-solving process?

Leaders are crucial in guiding the process, facilitating communication, and ensuring that decisions align with the overall mission and goals.

How does the process help in risk management?

It encourages considering potential risks and evaluating the implications of different solutions, leading to more informed risk management decisions.

What is the first step of the military problem-solving process?

The first step is to identify the specific problem or issue that needs to be addressed.

How is information gathered in the process?

Information can be gathered through research, data analysis, interviews, and other relevant means.

What role does critical thinking play in this process?

Critical thinking is essential for evaluating information, analyzing solutions, and making informed decisions.

How are solutions compared and analyzed in the process?

Solutions are compared based on the established criteria to determine their feasibility and potential impact.

What factors are considered when developing criteria?

Criteria can include factors such as effectiveness, efficiency, feasibility, and alignment with mission objectives.

Why is it important to assess the decision after implementation?

Assessing the decision helps in evaluating its actual impact and effectiveness, allowing for adjustments if necessary.

Can the process be used for both short-term and long-term decision-making?

Yes, the process is adaptable and can be applied to decisions of varying time frames and complexity.

About Wayne Fletcher

Wayne is a 58 year old, very happily married father of two, now living in Northern California. He served our country for over ten years as a Mission Support Team Chief and weapons specialist in the Air Force. Starting off in the Lackland AFB, Texas boot camp, he progressed up the ranks until completing his final advanced technical training in Altus AFB, Oklahoma. He has traveled extensively around the world, both with the Air Force and for pleasure. Wayne was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal, First Oak Leaf Cluster (second award), for his role during Project Urgent Fury, the rescue mission in Grenada. He has also been awarded Master Aviator Wings, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Combat Crew Badge. He loves writing and telling his stories, and not only about firearms, but he also writes for a number of travel websites.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.