Intuitive Insights For Course Of Action Development

Abstract

Defence Research and Development Canada - Atlantic has been investigating ideas and tools to aid shipboard planning teams with course of action (COA) development. Considerable previous research on operational planning suggests that the process is not well-suited to shipboard planning. In light of the shortcomings of current planning methods, the PreMortem method was investigated as a methodology to aid shipboard planning teams in developing more intuitive and creative COAs. The aim of this research was to evaluate planning teams’ acceptance, ease of use and perceived value of the PreMortem as an addition to traditional decision matrix planning methods. The results suggest that the PreMortem method adds value in the form of COA creativity over traditional planning methods. The PreMortem method is a recommended addition to the current process.