Oprecis

Oprecis, short for "operational precis," is a concise and structured summary used primarily in military and strategic planning contexts. It serves to distill complex information into a brief, easily digestible format, enabling quick understanding and decision-making. The term is derived from the French word "précis," which means a precise or concise summary.

An oprecis typically includes key elements such as the situation, mission, execution, administration and logistics, and command and signal (often abbreviated as SMEAC). The situation provides a brief overview of the current circumstances. The mission statement outlines the specific task or objective. Execution details the actions required to accomplish the mission. Administration and logistics cover the necessary support and resources. Command and signal describe the chain of command and communication protocols.

The oprecis format is valued for its clarity and efficiency, making it a useful tool in high-pressure environments where rapid comprehension and response are crucial. It is often used in military briefings, operational orders, and strategic planning sessions. The concise nature of an oprecis allows decision-makers to quickly grasp the essential points without being overwhelmed by excessive detail.

While originally developed for military use, the oprecis format has found applications in other fields that require clear and succinct communication, such as emergency management and business strategy. Its structured approach ensures that all critical information is included, facilitating effective planning and execution.