Planning


Purpose

For Germans planning is absolutely critical to success. A good plan provides structure. It maintains cohesion and stability. Thoughtful planning reduces risk.

Patterns


Short Mid Long

Germans plan for the mid- to long-term. Short-term action cannot be planned for properly. It’s almost a contradiction in itself. Short-term planning is often not worth the time, effort and investment.

Patterns


Detail

Germans believe in detail. Their plans have a high degree of detail. Germans tend to plan from A to Z. And they prefer to plan well in advance before beginning execution.

Patterns


Flexibility

Germans believe that a plan can only serve its purpose if you stick to it. “Why make a plan if you don’t intend to execute on it?” They are not easily thrown off balance by changing parameters.

Patterns


Contingency

Because Germans believe in discipline – sticking to the plan – they do less contingency planning. Instead, they build into their plans room for rapid adjustments depending on the situation on the ground.

Patterns