The Cognitive Crucible #233 Orlandon Howard on Rethinking Strategic Communication
Sep 30, 2025
Lt. Col. Orlandon Howard, a U.S. Army public affairs officer, shares his insights on rethinking strategic communication within military public affairs. He highlights the importance of the PESO model, emphasizing how integrated communication strategies can align military goals with audience needs. Howard discusses the challenges posed by information warfare, particularly from nation-state competitors like China, and the ethical nuances of informing versus influencing. He also poses a thought-provoking research question about the cognitive conditions that influence host nation support for military operations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Doctrine Shapes Readiness In The Information Fight
- Orlandon Howard argues the information environment against China is a "wicked problem" that current doctrine doesn't adequately address.
- He asserts doctrine shapes capability development and resource allocation, so gaps in doctrine leave us unprepared cognitively.
Write To Clarify Strategic Communication
- Howard wrote his article to professionalize thinking and give the military a practical, permanent framework for strategic communication.
- He recommends writing and systematic thought to clarify what leaders mean by "strategic communication."
Strategy Equals PESO Directed By Objectives
- Howard frames strategic communication (which he renames communication strategy) as a PESO activity set directed at measurable objectives.
- He emphasizes goals, benchmarking, and executing activities that will demonstrably achieve the objective.
