MSNBC has an article that is a short breakdown of some of the planning and thought that went into the planning of the assault. And, a look at Spec Ops, the much maligned CIA and how much they contributed. It is well worth the time to read it.
The Military has learned well the lessons of Viet Nam, Lebenon and Somolia.

The quote from one officer speaks volumns of the new thinking in the Planning Office. " “What you say is many times more important than what you do in this part of the world,” says a senior U.S. psy-warrior." Another comment illustrates the leap forward in Combined Theatre Operations "We’re going to mess with their heads,” a senior Pentagon official told NEWSWEEK before the war began

There are a number comments on the silent part of the campaign, the part we haven't seen from the embedded reporters. A lot of which we'll never see. Finally the military has realized the high value of Special Operations Teams and Psy-Ops. Those quiet warriors we never hear of except in vague terms. Both their successes, and failures.

One reporter made the comment he would like to know what really happened out of the camera's sight. In the North, inside Baghdad before the main forces reached it. Adding we'd probably never hear the whole story, as the weapons, equipment, tactics and techniques will be used again.

Another point, I wonder how many of those embeds have gained an entirly different view of the US servicemen and women. Of their dedication, valor and commitment?