Army Design Methodology to Problem Solving Report

Army Design Methodology is a process used by Army Leaders that allows them to apply critical thinking to analyze problems in the operational environment to find appropriate solutions to them. Army Design Methodology is applicable in situations when problems emerge that contradict initial plans. The first step of employing Army Design Methodology is framing an operational environment, which is accomplished by modeling how the desired future states can be achieved based on natural tendencies. The second step is framing existing problems, which requires the planning team to analyze the issues preventing the operational environment from progressing in the desired way. The third step is framing solutions by using elements of operational art. The final step is reframing the operational environment and the problem by comparing the operational forecasts with events that transpired. Any operational environment will inevitably pose problems to the successful completion of a mission, thus compromising commanders’ control throughout the operation and forcing them into seeking creative solutions to unexpected problems. Army techniques publication (ATP) 5-0.1 is part of a continuing effort focused on improving the critical and creative thinking abilities of leaders and teams to understand and solve problems. This publication describes Army Design Methodology in the context of the operations process and offers techniques for forming and leading teams for group problem-solving. Army Design Methodology can be used at any stage of an operation.