2-98. The rapid decision-making and synchronization process (RDSP) is a decision-making and planning technique that commanders and staffs commonly use during execution when available planning time is limited. While the MDMP seeks an optimal solution, the RDSP seeks a timely and effective solution within the commander’s intent. Using the RDSP lets leaders avoid the time-consuming requirements of developing decision criteria and multiple COAs. Under the RDSP, leaders combine their experiences and intuition to quickly understand the situation and develop a COA. The RDSP is based on an existing order and the commander’s priorities as expressed in the order. The RDSP includes five steps: