How many levels of planning are outlined in the National Planning System?

The National Planning System outlines three distinct levels of planning, which include strategic planning, operational planning, and tactical planning. Each level serves a specific purpose within the overall framework of emergency management and is designed to address different aspects of preparedness and response.

Strategic planning typically refers to the long-term goals and objectives of the emergency management process, focusing on broad policies and the overall direction of planning efforts. Operational planning deals with the implementation of those strategic objectives, covering the coordinated actions and resources needed to manage incidents. Tactical planning is more focused on the specific actions that need to be taken in the field during an emergency response.

Understanding these three levels helps emergency managers effectively coordinate efforts across different organizations and scales, ensuring that they can respond to emergencies in a comprehensive manner. This multi-tiered approach to planning is essential for creating a robust response system that can adapt to varied situations and needs within the community.