Military leaders understand that mission command – also known as command by mission – is the key to mission success. This concept enables commanders to provide direction to subordinates without micromanaging them and encouraging them to think and innovate in order to achieve mission success. But how do effective plans and orders foster mission command?

At its core, mission command is about setting goals and objectives, then providing subordinates with the guidance and resources to achieve them. In order for mission command to be effective, plans and orders must be tailored to the mission at hand. To accomplish this, commanders must consider the following:

1. Provide a Clear Mission Statement: To get everyone in the organization on the same page, it is important to have a clear mission statement. This statement should be easy to understand and explain exactly what the organization’s purpose is.
2. Establish a Focused Plan of Action: Once the mission statement has been created, the next step is to develop a plan of action. This should include specific goals that are measurable and objective-oriented. It should also include a timeline for completion and any resources that may be needed.
3. Issue Detailed Orders: Once the plan of action has been established, it is important to issue detailed orders. These orders should include specific instructions on how to accomplish the mission and guidance on how to utilize available resources. It is also important to ensure that subordinate leaders understand the expectations for successful completion.

When effective plans and orders are created and issued, it enables mission command to be employed. This allows commanders to set a clear purpose and allow their subordinates to think and act creatively to achieve success. Without this focus, mission command cannot be successful.