Distributed control enables commanders to delegate planning and coordination activities to dispersed locations or subordinate echelons in order to achieve an effective span of control. The benefits inherent in distributed control and decentralized execution are maximized when clearly communicated commander’s intent guides subordinate actions. Distributed control allows subordinate commanders to respond to changes in the operational environment and take advantage of fleeting opportunities. Contested environments may require a greater degree of distributed control than uncontested environments. Commanders should empower subordinates at the lowest capable level through MTOs, and with command by negation rather than micromanagement.
