Cooperation in any form requires planning. “Sounds like a plan” is a common phrase. A plan is a way of doing something. A detailed formulation of a program of action.
Purpose
Germans believe strongly in planning. A good plan provides structure. It maintains cohesion and stability. A good plan is essential to achieving results.
Short Mid Long
Germans plan for the mid- to long-term. Short-term action cannot be planned for properly. It’s not worth the time, effort and investment.
Degree of Detail
Germans believe in detail. Their plans have a high degree of detail. Germans plan from A to Z. Germans prefer to plan well in advance before beginning execution.
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?”
Contingency
Because Germans believe in discipline – sticking to the plan – they do much less contingency planning.
