In its present context, command embraces planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and controlling. Command has also proven to be the timeless notion in spite of organizational changes and technological advances. Information, by its very nature, is most useful when not hierarchically controlled. A characteristic of military hierarchies is control of information. We must take advantage of networked organizational orientation in providing access to shared information at all levels of command.
Shared information helps reduce uncertainty and improve a commander's decision-making cycle.
Given the danger of information overload, new technological innovations such as computer smart agents and data mining will allow commanders to tailor their information- gathering capabilities to meet their specific needs. Shared information gathering allows for increased operations tempo. Decision making is most effective in a flattened hierarchical organization. Eliminating layers of command provides the means to operate at a higher tempo. Decentralized control also encourages innovation and initiative at the lowest levels of command and promotes morale.