What IS an OODA loop?

John R. Boyd was a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot active during the 1950's. In the 1970's he helped design the F-16 and then went on to promote a concept called the OODA loop.

OODA stands for Observation, Orientation, Decision and Action. This is a basic pattern for how we make tactical decisions. Col. Boyd is credited with coining this term, originating and promoting the concept which has become a strategic centerpiece for multiple military campaigns.

Many acknowledge that the OODA loop concept is just as powerful in business as it is in the military. But it is just as powerful and simplistic a tool for an individual as it is for these larger venues. Particularly when it comes to decreasing the downtime of employees