Which option is NOT a standard component of the Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP)?

• A. Direct task delegation
• B. Mission Analysis
• C. War-gaming
• D. COA Comparison

Answer: (A)

MDMP is a structured sequence used to produce a planned course of action, guiding staff from framing the problem to delivering a plan. Mission Analysis starts by shaping the problem, gathering essential facts, and defining the commander’s intent and constraints. War-gaming comes into play during COA analysis to test how each option would unfold under real conditions and against likely opposition. COA Comparison is the step where feasible options are weighed against criteria like risk, feasibility, and effectiveness, leading to the best choice. Plan or Order Development then formalizes the chosen COA into a plan and the accompanying orders. Direct task delegation, while tasks and assignments occur as part of executing the plan and issuing orders, is not a named, standard MDMP step.