To simplify training and make it easy on the training cadre / instructors too many 'conditions' are cookie cutter, easy approaches to the problem at hand. Problem in the real world is that conditions can vary so widely as to make much training meaningless. Clearing a roadblock at Hood and clearing one in Afghanistan will differ in multiple ways.

Simple example is climatology based. Performing a task on a pleasant and balmy June day at Bragg and the same task in January at Carson -- much less further north or up -- is a different thing entirely. A task tested at night with a full moon is likely to result differently if the same unit were tested on a night with no moon.

Another simple example is use of the Map *. Last time I looked, there were 21 map 'tasks.' Those aren't tasks, they're enabling skills and there are other skills the system doesn't recognize. There are really only two map tasks -- Using a map, (1) Plot or locate own, friendly, enemy and other locations; (2) Conduct a map reconnaissance to select masks, clearances, routes and positions. Yet, we waste time teaching some or all those 21 'tasks' over and over at every level from BCT to the OACs...

* GPS is great. Love it. Use it -- but if it goes out I won't be in trouble or lost. Not sure everyone can say that -- but they should be able to, even Joe. Especially Joe...

Training is not easy, it's difficult and it needs to be done well and it must be integrated and aimed at producing the desired performance that is most likely to offer success regardless of conditions.