A method for minimizing a range of at least one operating mode of a powered system provided in a mission plan, the method including determining an amount of time a powered system enters a range of at least one operating mode at least one of prior to beginning a mission and while performing the mission and notifying an operator of the powered system and/or a remote monitoring facility of the amount of time the powered system enters the range of the at least one operating mode while performing the mission and/or will enter the range of the at least one operating mode prior to beginning the mission.