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Col John Boyd described conflict as “time competitive
observation, orientation, decision and action cycles.” This model of thought, learning and decision making is called
the OODA Loop. Do not be fooled by the simplistic ideas running through your mind as you read this. I can hear some
of you now, “come on Freddie, this is the crux of strategic theory leading to grand strategy, overall success
and survival, Observe, Orient, Decide and Act”? Quite simply yes it is! This is a powerful tool that assists in making
sound decisions in a timely manner. However it’s not as simplistic a process, as it sounds. To learn, understand
and translate to a specific environment and apply the Boyd Cycle (aka OODA Loop) effectively to gain the advantage, takes
some individual initiative, research, study and training to reap its full benefits in the strategic and tactical realms of
conflict...
The OODA Loop is not only about one side of the competitive
environment, it’s about both sides and you getting inside the mind of the competition as Boyd described; “Operate
inside the adversaries observation-orientation-decision and action loops to enmesh adversary in a world of uncertainty, doubt,
mistrust, confusion, disorder, fear, panic, chaos… and or fold the adversary back inside himself so that he cannot cope
with events/efforts as they unfold.” When two sides of a competitive situation are in conflict, the
side that can execute the Boyd Cycle (OODA Loop) process more rapidly and more effectively than the other will gain the advantage
over the opponent because initiative is seized and the opponent will constantly be reacting to the decisions of the opposing
side...
The most important step in the OODA Loop is orientation.
In this step analysis and synthesis of the observations occur. Observations you make are processed and give you a
snapshot or picture of what is going on at the specific time and place allowing you to make decisions and take appropriate
action...
Applying the OODA Loop faster than your opponent is the core of
situational awareness and intuitive decision making and the essence of winning or losing.
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