Army Problem Solving vs. Rapid Decision Making Compared
This paper examines two key military decision-making frameworks: the Army's seven-step problem-solving process (closely aligned with the Military Decision Making Process, MDMP) and the Rapid Decision Making and Synchronization Process (RDSP). The paper walks through each step of the systematic problem-solving model — from problem identification and information gathering to solution implementation — before outlining the five stages of RDSP (Recommend, Input, Agree/Approve, Perform, Decide). It then compares and contrasts both frameworks, noting that while MDMP is a deliberate, time-intensive planning tool, RDSP is designed for time-constrained situations requiring swift, intuition-driven action.
- Introduction to Army Problem Solving: Overview of military problem solving and risk management
- The Seven Steps of Army Problem Solving: Detailed walkthrough of each problem-solving step
- Rapid Decision Making and Synchronization Process (RDSP): Five-stage RDSP framework explained
- Comparing MDMP and RDSP: Shared features of both planning tools
- Contrasting MDMP and RDSP: Key differences between deliberate and rapid planning
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What makes this paper effective
- Clearly defines each framework before comparing them, giving readers the conceptual grounding needed to follow the analysis.
- Uses structured enumeration (seven steps, five RDSP stages) that makes complex military processes accessible and easy to follow.
- The comparison and contrast sections are logically separated, preventing conflation of similarities with differences and reinforcing analytical clarity.
Key academic technique demonstrated
The paper demonstrates the compare-and-contrast method applied to two institutional frameworks. By first explaining each process independently and then directly juxtaposing them, the author shows how analytical structure — rather than mere description — drives understanding. The use of criteria-based evaluation (suitability, feasibility, acceptability) mirrors the very decision-making logic the paper describes.
Structure breakdown
The paper opens with a brief conceptual introduction to military problem solving. It then devotes the largest section to the seven-step Army problem-solving model, covering each step in detail. A second major section introduces RDSP and its five stages. Two final sections — one on similarities, one on contrasts — complete the comparison. The structure moves from definition to description to analysis, a classic expository pattern well suited to explaining procedural frameworks.
Introduction to Army Problem Solving
Problem solving is a daily occurrence in the military and represents a systematic way of arriving at the best possible solution to a crisis or problem. It also involves risk management techniques that require army leaders to remain objective while making decisions, and it can be used to gauge individuals' critical thinking skills (Business Dictionary, 2011).
References
Business Dictionary. (2011). Definition: Problem solving. Retrieved October 20, 2011, from
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