The OODA loop sequence in decision making is Observe, Orient, Decide, and then Act.

Observe the situation, then orient yourself, decide on an action, then act. This description of a decision making cycle is attributed to Col. John Boyd.

Boyd states that the orientation phase of the loop is the most important step, because if the enemy perceives the wrong threats, or misunderstands what is happening in the environment around him, then he will orient his thinking (and forces) in wrong directions and ultimately make incorrect decisions. Boyd said that this cycle of decision-making could operate at different speeds for the enemy and your own organization. The goal should be to to complete your OODA loop process at a faster tempo than the enemy’s, and to take action to lengthen the enemy’s loop.

from http://www.valuebasedmanagement.net/methods_boyd_ooda_loop.html