Which exercise is typically conducted with a focus on discussion rather than technical execution?

The tabletop exercise is primarily centered around discussion and strategic thinking rather than the actual, technical execution of plans or procedures. In this type of exercise, participants come together to talk through their responses to various scenarios, allowing for an exploration of policies, procedures, and coordination among teams without the pressures of a live simulation. This format encourages participants to think critically about how they would respond to specific incidents, examine roles and responsibilities, and identify any gaps in their plans.

The emphasis on discussion in tabletop exercises makes them particularly effective for training purposes, as they can foster communication, enhance understanding of responsibilities, and improve overall preparedness for real-world situations. This is in contrast to other types of exercises, such as live drills or full interruption tests, which involve more hands-on technical actions and actual implementation of systems or processes.