text: Mission Command
  understand situations, develop options to solve problems, and reach decisions. Commanders, staffs, and
  others use the MDMP to think critically and creatively while planning. Using the MDMP results in an
  improved understanding of the situation and an order that guides the force through preparation and execution.
  3-79. The MDMP consists of seven steps. Each step of the MDMP has various inputs, a method (step) to
  conduct, and outputs. The outputs lead to an increased understanding of the situation and facilitate the next
  step of the MDMP.
  3-80. The MDMP facilitates collaboration and parallel planning. The BCT headquarters solicits input and
  continuously shares information concerning future operations through planning meetings, WARNORDs,
  OPORDs, and fragmentary orders. Commanders encourage active collaborations to build shared
  understandings of situations, participate in course of action development and decision-making, and resolve
  conflicts before publishing orders.
  3-81. The MDMP also drives preparation. Since time is a factor in all operations, commanders and staffs
  conduct time analyses of their planning and preparation activities early in the planning process. Time analysis
  may require the commander to direct subordinates through a series of WARNORDs to start necessary
  movements, conduct task organization changes, begin reconnaissance and security operations, and execute
  other preparation activities before completing the plan. For example, to support reconnaissance and security
  operations, the Cavalry squadron commander and staff must conduct parallel planning with the BCT staff, as
  seen in figure 3-4, page 3-18.