The phrase "old playbook" refers to a set of strategies or methods that have been used in the past, but are outdated or no longer effective. Full definition
We can not abide new players coming in to maintain the same old playbooks in Nassau County or Oyster Bay. (newsday.com)
Because if you're likely to live to 95, or 105, you may need to throw out the old playbook and draw up a new one. (fortune.com)
The surge has prompted tough questions for law - enforcement officials, forcing them to rethink the old playbooks on traditional hostage taking and theft. (fortune.com)