“Modus operandi”

"Modus operandi" (also known as “MO”) is a new Latin words, literally translated as "method of operation"[1],  or a person or thing's normal mode of operation[2], from modus (“manner, method”) and operandi (“of working”)[3].  It is first known use in 1654[4]. The term is used to describe someone's habits or manner of working[5].

In general, but more bias on criminology, “modus operandi” can be defined as “a method of procedure; especially : a distinct pattern or method of operation that indicates or suggests the work of a single criminal in more than one crime”[6].

The expression is often used in police work when discussing a crime and addressing the methods employed by the perpetrators. It is also used in criminal profiling[7], where it can help in finding clues to the offender's psychology[8].  It largely consists of examining the actions used by the individual(s) to execute the crime, prevent its detection and/or facilitate escape. A suspect's modus operandi can assist in his identification, apprehension or repression, and can also be used to determine links between crimes[9].

In business operation, “modus operandi” is defined as “manner of operation; the means of accomplishing an act; especially, the characteristic method employed by a person in certain acts; the way one (who often is sly in business dealings) operates” . Therefore, the words “modus operandi” is often used in business settings as well, to describe a firm's preferred means of doing business and interacting with other firms.

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[1] Douglas, J. E. and A. W. Burgess, A. G. 2006. Burgess, R. K. Ressler. Crime classification manual, John Wiley & Sons, p. 19-21

[2] Wiktionary, http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/modus_operandi (6 November 2012).

[3] Ibid.

[4] http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modus%20operandi (6 November 2012).

[5] Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modus_operandi (6 November 2012).

[6] Ibid.

[7] Vronsky, R.2006.  Serial Killers, Berkley Books, p. 412.

[8] Hazelwood, R. R, A. W. Burgess,2001.  Practical Aspects of Rape Investigation, CRC Press, p. 517.

[9] Berg, B.L. 2008. Criminal Investigation, McGraw-Hill.