Specified or Implied - it's still a task
"Discipline is rarely enjoyable, but almost always profitable. " Darrin Patrick
Specified Tasks and Implied Tasks are part of the Military Decision Making Process or MDMP. Most people loathed MDMP. It required considerable effort and time and it always seemed to occur at the worst hour under the worst climate. But it worked. MDMP was designed to solve complex problems. Its steps, if followed correctly, help a military staff develop the best directives for subordinate units and individuals and meet the senior commander's intent. It took discipline as MDMP often resulted in more work for individuals and teams.
MDMP took place when an order was given by a higher headquarters. An Army brigade, for instance, would give an order to a battalion and the battalion would assemble its staff officers to conduct MDMP. Step II of MDMP, Mission Analysis, included listing Specified and Implied Tasks. Specified tasks would be stated clearly in the higher headquarter's order. Implied tasks were harder to determine. For example, if the order called for the movement of soldiers and supplies over a long distance (specified), the subordinate unit would be required to conduct a refueling operation (implied) at a point in the route where vehicles would need it.
In a company, the best subordinates conduct an informal MDMP. They take what the boss tells them and factor in the implied tasks - usually on their own without peppering their leader with questions and requests. Good leaders resource and empower their people to help them accomplish implied tasks. Moreover, they train their people to think beyond a simple directive. Leaders give intent - Purpose, Key Tasks, and End State, not specific, comprehensive, step-by-step directions to their subordinates. Their subordinates, understanding this intent, will determine implied tasks required to meet intent.
John, is tasked with conducting maintenance on the company's fleet of vans. His boss gives him intent. "John, I'd like you to lead our quarterly van maintenance rodeo (task). We are doing this to ensure efficiency in our daily work and to promote vehicle longevity (purpose). Balance the maintenance schedule against our work schedule, document findings and fixes, and see if you can determine wear and tear trends (key tasks). When complete, all vans will have been serviced and repaired, and the rodeo documented for use by the company (end state)."
John's implied tasks (additional work to ensure mission accomplishment) will be to plan a schedule which does not impede daily operations, publish the schedule, and create a back-up plan should a van be in service for an extended period.
What are the implied tasks behind your stated directive? Leaders and subordinates should aim to determine what they are and discipline themselves to accomplish them in the name of mission accomplishment.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell