Operational Coherence and its predecessors have worked in emergency management, but at this time, Operational Coherence is focused on wildfire and wildfire-related areas such as utilities.

Operational Coherence's approach begins with developing a network of knowledge as complex as the problem or task at hand is through a desk review, experience, and additional subject matter experts, to build a design frame that can be used to approach the project.

Part of the Operational Coherence process is critique, which is valuable throughout the design phases but most practical during concept development and prototyping. A critical lens allows for raising questions that can be answered prior to the creation of a product. After the product has been created, critique is valuable for understanding how a product can best be used and by whom. The critical approach Operational Coherence brings to any engagement can be supportive and directive in many areas, including decision-making in the design, development, and adoption phases. 

Operational Coherence acknowledges the formulaic, prosaic, processual, and best practice-based approaches that are vital to supporting wildfire.

In recognition of the critical work taking place by larger firms, Operational Coherence takes a complementary and additive approach driven by complexity and design thinking and based on the creation of new knowledge, concern, reflection, care, inspiration, form, style, and the creation of original tools and techniques to address problems based on their unique demands