Evaluating a Plan

A long time ago, in a book written in Rhode Island, I found these three rules for evaluating a plan.  They were reprised in an EMail today from someone down in the Northern Virginia area, just north of Mount Vernon.

1. Suitable:  Objectives are clearly stated; concepts are internally sound and simple; both are consistent with other plans.  [Will this plan get done the specific job in front of us?]
2. Feasible:  Resources are sufficient to ensure successful implementation.
3. Acceptable:  Anticipated outcomes are worth costs and risks in terms of money, manpower, materiel, time, and politico-military implications.  [And, can we live with this particular solution to the problem?]

The person sent along a fourth criteria:

1. Flexible: Concepts and resources permit a range of options and facilitate smooth transitions when situations change.  [Since almost always the situation changes as the plan is implemented]

Truth in peace and war, in the most major undertaking and the humblest village.

Regards  —  Cliff