The "6P" Principle in Two-Way Radio Communications

Would you agree with the following statement:
Performance is relative?

So, in other words, on the one hand there is performing to such a level as to be better than most, and then on the other there is performing at an intentional level in order to drive oneself to be the best you can be.  When it comes to two-way radio communication the “6P” principle has been established to help remind you that applied preparation on the work front can yield a better result in your overall performance.

So, what are we referring to when we say the “6P” principle?  Collectively it means the following: "Proper Pre-Planning Prevents Poor Performance".

By avoiding this principle and simply “winging it” with respect to RT communications, is not only exposing yourself to increased risk within an already compromised situation, it unanimously creates an unprofessional environment that is leaning towards an unsafe outcome.

There is a huge difference between being prepared to communicate on a two-way radio just for the love of it, as opposed to communicating on a two-way radio with absolute confidence in one`s ability. 

To explain this further, understanding how to communicate professionally on a two-way radio can be compared to purchasing a product that comes supplied with a User Manual. If you choose to try and get the purchased product to operate without first reading the supplied documentation, the chances are good that the product is not going to operate as it should, if at all. The same can be said when it comes to effective two-way radio communications. You need to plan which includes being well familiar with the task at hand.

Now one could say that if performance is of no concern, don't bother to plan. In short, if you fail to plan, then plan to fail. There is ample evidence however that planning most definitely does not always prevent poor performance. At least, not systematically. So, although pre-planning does not always guarantee that you are immune from a poor performance, you can use this to your advantage by measuring and finding out exactly where the bottlenecks lie to correct and improve your future two-way radio communication strategy.

If you are willing to take the time out and prepare yourself by:

• Studying the radio terminology appropriate to the tasks you are going to be required to perform,
• Understanding how two-way radio procedures are applied correctly,
• Asking for assistance from a colleague or qualified professional when in doubt about anything RT related;

then you are on track to a tried and tested results platform with respect to RT communication and procedures..  

It is true that some of us are more disciplined than others.  Most of us aren’t expert “preparers.”  It takes a special will to fully prepare, and the people you know inside your circles who do apply this stance, always stand out.

So, whether you are already focused on the management of planning or are faced with making changes to your working environment, now is the time to consider the benefits for anyone considering applying this principle as part of their daily business operation. Why not take a chance and see how you too can overcome poor performance through a secure planning process geared to operate under the umbrella of the “6P” Model!