STEPS in POLICE OPERATIONAL PLANNING

1. Frame of Reference
– based on a careful view of the matters relating
to the situation;
- opinions or ideas of persons with authority;
-views of the police commanders, other
government officials, and other professionals.
2. Clarifying the Problems
–identification of the problems, understanding
both its records and its possible solution;
- situation must exist for which something must
and can be done - for example, an area in a
city or municipality is victimized by a series
of robbers. There is a need for reaching the
preliminary decision that robberies may be
reduced in the area, and that the pattern of
operation, in general, is one by which the
police can reduce them.
3. Collecting all Pertinent Facts
–plan must not be developed until all facts
relating to it have been carefully reviewed
to determine the modus operandi, suspects,
types of victims, and such other information
as may be necessary;
- facts relating to such matters as availability,
deployment, and the use of present
personnel shall be gathered.

4. Developing the Facts

– once gathered, do a careful analysis and
evaluation of fact;
- provide the basis from which a plan or
plans are evolved;
- only such facts as any have relevance shall
be considered.
5. Developing Alternative Plans
– at initial phases, several alternative measures
appear to be logically comparable to the
needs of a situation;
- when alternative solutions are evaluated, one
of the proposed plans shall usually prove more
logical than the others.

6. Selecting the Most Appropriate Alternative

– careful consideration of all facts usually leads
to selection of the best alternative proposal.
7. Selling the Plans
–to be effectively carried out, plan must be accepted
by persons concerned - for example, in a robbery
case, the patrol division head may be preparing
the plan. At the outset, the detective chief is
concerned and shall be consulted. As the planning
develops, there may be a need it involve the head
of the personnel, records and communication
units and all patrol officers.
 8. Arranging for the Execution of the Plan
– the execution of a plan requires the issuance of
orders and directives to units and personnel
concern, the establishment of a schedule, and
the provision of manpower and the equipment
for carrying out the plan. Briefing shall be held
and assurance shall be received that all
involved personnel understood when, how, and
what is to be done.

9. Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Plan

–results of plan shall be determined. This is
necessary in order to know whether a correct
alternative was chosen, whether the plan was correct,
which phase was poorly implemented, and whether
additional planning may be necessary. Also, the effects
of the executed plan or other operations and on total
police operations shall be determined. Follow-up is the
control factor essential for effective command