4-17. As commanders begin to understand their operational environment and problem, they start visualizing a desired end state and potential solutions to solve the problem. Collectively, this is known as commander’s visualization—the mental process of developing situational understanding, determining a desired end state, and envisioning an operational approach by which the force will achieve that end state (ADP 6-0). Assignment of a mission provides the focus for developing the commander’s visualization that, in turn, provides the basis for developing plans and orders.