Operational Planning
- Eagle Med Solutions
- Dec 30, 2025
- 2 min read
Operational Planning: Beyond the Big Picture
Operational planning models vary widely across industries, yet they share a common goal—functional, repeatable processes that enable predictable outcomes. During my time in the Marine Corps, we relied on the SMEAC format: Situation, Mission, Execution, Admin & Logistics, Command & Control. It worked—simple, disciplined, and effective. After a few repetitions, it became muscle memory.
Since transitioning into roles across multiple sectors, I’ve been exposed to additional planning frameworks used in executive protection, anti-terrorism operations, and medical evacuation planning under triage conditions. Each system brings its own strengths, but a recurring issue is that planning often gravitates toward the major, obvious components of an operation—such as vehicle movements, arrivals, departures, and driving routes. These are critical and must be rehearsed whenever possible.
However, what frequently gets overlooked are the small details—the elements we assume will “just work,” yet are often the first to fail under pressure.
Consider:
A flat tire with no means to change it, and no plan for providing security during the delay
A medical emergency where the default response plan is simply “call EMS”—unrealistic aboard an aircraft, in remote areas, or in regions without reliable prehospital care
Hot loads, hard-pointing procedures, communications contingencies, and individual briefing responsibilities that are never truly assigned or rehearsed
In many operational environments, the medical plan is still one of the weakest links. Too often it is generic, undeveloped, or not briefed at all. Yet medical intervention is one of the most time-sensitive components of any critical incident. If we expect teams to manage trauma, illness, or environmental injuries, the medical plan must be detailed, realistic, and led by the senior medic, just as route planning should be led by the primary and assistant drivers, and approach planning by the advance element.
Every section of an operation—large or small—should include a thorough and practical Operational Risk Management (ORM) assessment. Risk mitigation isn’t just documentation; it’s a living component of the mission that shapes decision-making before, during, and after execution.
At the end of the day, operational planning isn’t only about the big movements—it’s about anticipating and preparing for the overlooked details that can derail the mission.
Be safe.
Be thorough.
Be ready to “Change the Outcome.”
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