Group Planning in ISSB

 

Group Planning in ISSB

Group Planning in ISSB

Group Planning (GP), also known as Group Planning Exercise (GPE), is an important part of the Inter-Services Selection Board (ISSB) testing process. It evaluates a candidate's ability to think logically, work effectively in a team, and demonstrate leadership qualities. A breakdown of the criteria and their general content is as follows: 

1. Goals:

The main purpose of the Group Planning Exercise is to evaluate the candidate's ability to solve problems through teamwork, logical thinking, and strategic planning. It also tests the candidate's communication skills,  ability to set priorities, and  effectiveness under pressure.  

2. Exercise Overview:

Scenario Description:

Candidates are presented with a complex problem or scenario. The scenario typically involves a map with multiple locations marked, and candidates must solve the situation within a limited time. 

Problem Elements:

 The scenario typically involves multiple problems that must be solved simultaneously, requiring groups to effectively plan and delegate tasks. For example, candidates may need to rescue people, provide aid, or prevent a disaster within  given constraints.  

Resources and Constraints:

 There are certain resources available and candidates have to decide how to use them effectively. There are also constraints like time restrictions, distance,  availability of vehicles and tools. 

3. Procedure:

Understanding the Problem:

 First, candidates individually consider the problem and formulate a solution.

Group Discussion:

 Then, they discuss the problem in groups and debate different solutions. Here, leadership qualities, teamwork and communication skills are evaluated.  

Final Plan:

 The group must agree on a final plan. Ideally, this plan should be practical, well thought out and cover all aspects of the scenario. 

4. Evaluation Criteria:

Leadership Skills:

 How well the candidate is able to influence the group and lead the discussion to a logical solution.  

Teamwork:

The ability to work cooperatively, respecting the opinions of others while contributing meaningfully to the group's plan. Communication Skills:

The ability to communicate ideas clearly, listen actively and ensure the plan is understood by everyone. 

Problem-Solving Skills:

 The ability to think logically and practically, analyze problems and propose workable solutions.

Decision-Making:

 How quickly and effectively the candidate makes decisions under pressure. 

Resource Management:

 Effectively using available resources within a scenario.  

5. Common Errors:

Dominating the discussion:

 Excessively dominating the discussion without giving others a chance to participate. 

Lack of participation:

Being silent or passive during  group discussions. 

Illogical solutions:

Proposing unrealistic solutions or solutions that do not address the core problem. 

No consensus:

 Failing to contribute to or support a shared decision.  

6. Preparation Tips:

Practice Group Discussions:

 Participate in group discussions on various topics to improve your communication and leadership skills. 

Learn Problem-Solving Techniques:

Understand how to plan logically and strategically. 

Stay Calm Under Pressure:

Strive to maintain composure and clarity even in stressful situations. 

Learn to Listen:

 Develop active listening skills to effectively understand and synthesize other people's ideas. Group planning is one of  many tasks in ISSB but  plays a vital role in assessing candidates performance as officers in stressful and team situations.

Group Discussion / Lecturate Topics for ISSB