Slap,

Well and concisely said:
It separates problem solving from solution planning (MDMP) two very distinct functions but they both go together.
I'd probably just add in "problem identification" in front of "problem solving".

To me it is EBO with a good dose of Army practicality thrown in,otherwise known as systems development/thinking
I think General Mattis made a good point, at least that is how I read it - that an "effect" is simply a change in a "condition", which if if correctly identified is the "purpose" of the actions you take. The important thing here is understanding the purpose to which you are applying effort before deciding on the task. Most folks think in "task/purpose", this helps you think in "purpose/task". That makes it allot simpler for me.

Best, Rob