In the operations process, which activity comes after "Plan"?

In the operations process, "Prepare" is the activity that comes immediately after "Plan." Once planning has been completed, the next logical step is preparation, which involves organizing resources, training personnel, and ensuring that everything necessary is in place to execute the plan effectively. This preparation phase is critical to bridge the gap between conceptualizing the plan and putting it into action. It sets the foundation for the entire operation by ensuring that all elements are coordinated and ready, reducing the likelihood of issues arising during execution.

While assessing might play a role before or during planning to evaluate current conditions or resources, it does not come immediately after planning. Executing follows preparation and is focused on carrying out the planned operations. Communicating is an ongoing activity that is often integrated throughout all stages but is not distinctly the next step following planning. Thus, "Prepare" correctly follows "Plan" in the operations process.