9-23. Once time is allocated, the commander determines whether to initiate Army design methodology, perform Army design methodology in parallel with the MDMP, or proceed directly into the MDMP without the benefits of formal Army design methodology activities. In time-sensitive situations where commanders decide to proceed directly into the MDMP, they may also issue guidance on how to abbreviate the process. Having determined the time available together with the scope and scale of the planning effort, commanders issue initial planning guidance. Although brief, the initial guidance includes, but is not limited to—