Overview

Understanding agility: the OODA loop

One concept that is helpful in understanding agility, and what it takes to become agile, is the OODA loop – an iterative cycle of observing, orienting, deciding and acting.

The OODA loop was developed by US Air Force pilot and Pentagon consultant Colonel John Boyd to assist combat pilots. As a fighter pilot instructor, Boyd had a standing bet that, from an initial position of disadvantage, he could defeat any opposing pilot in air combat manoeuvring within 40 seconds. He reputedly never lost the bet and earned himself the nickname ‘40-second Boyd’. He argued that the ability to cycle rapidly through the OODA loop is more critical to success than individual faculties such as good eyesight or fast reactions.

To found out more about the OODA loop please download the briefing.