By helping to gather and analyze pertinent data, contributing to the creation of the mission statement and commander's intent and ensuring the planning team has a thorough knowledge of the operational environment, the Operations Sergeant Major should actively participate in step one, Mission Analysis. The Operations Sergeant Major should apply their knowledge and skills to step two, COA Development. They can assess risks, determine resource needs, evaluate the viability and efficacy of potential COAs, and make recommendations to the commander and staff. Their participation guarantees that the COAs created are practical, in line with the commander's intent, and make effective use of the operational capabilities at hand