Genghis Khan's approach to urban centres and cities was pragmatic and varied based on the circumstances. If a city or settlement surrendered without resistance, its inhabitants were usually spared, and the Mongols would often assimilate the skilled labour and artisans into their ranks. However, if a city resisted, the consequences were dire. After a successful siege, the city might witness mass slaughter, enslavement, and pillaging. This strategic ruthlessness served a dual purpose: it reduced potential threats from revolts, and the reputation of Mongol fierceness often led to subsequent cities surrendering without a fight, facilitating smoother conquests.

During Genghis Khan's reign, technological advancements played a pivotal role in facilitating Mongol conquests. The Mongols mastered the art of horse archery, enabling them to shoot with accuracy while on the move. Their composite bows, made from layers of horn, wood, and sinew, were powerful and had a longer range than their counterparts. Additionally, the Mongols developed an efficient communication system, the Yam, consisting of relay stations and mounted couriers. This enabled rapid transmission of information across vast distances. Siege warfare technology, often acquired from conquered territories, such as Chinese engineers, further allowed the Mongols to breach fortified cities with relative ease.

The "Yassa" was a code of laws instituted by Genghis Khan, serving as the foundation of the Mongol Empire's legal and administrative system. Though its precise content remains somewhat elusive, due to the secretive nature of its documentation, it's understood to encompass a wide array of regulations, ranging from military discipline to civil rights. The "Yassa" mandated religious tolerance, established trade regulations, defined punitive measures for crimes, and even included environmental protections. This legal code, strictly enforced, provided a uniform framework of governance across the diverse and vast territories of the Mongol Empire, ensuring order, justice, and administrative consistency.

Genghis Khan adopted a notably tolerant stance towards religion, which had a profound influence on the governance of the Mongol Empire. Recognising the diversity within his vast territories, he ensured that religious freedom was a cornerstone of his rule. This approach was not just philosophical but also strategic. By allowing religious leaders and communities autonomy, he prevented potential rebellions and ensured smoother administration. Furthermore, he often sought the counsel of religious figures from various backgrounds, such as Buddhists, Muslims, and Christians, to inform his decisions. This inclusive attitude fostered a sense of unity and harmony within the empire, promoting cultural exchange and facilitating trade along the Silk Road.

The meritocratic approach of Genghis Khan revolutionised the Mongol army, prioritising ability and loyalty over noble lineage. Soldiers and commanders were rewarded based on their achievements on the battlefield rather than their backgrounds. This ensured that the most competent individuals led the troops, resulting in more effective and strategic military campaigns. Moreover, integrating soldiers from subdued tribes into the Mongol army, irrespective of their origins, expanded the empire's military prowess. This infusion of new tactics, skills, and knowledge, combined with a merit-based hierarchy, optimised the Mongol army's efficiency, making it a formidable force in medieval warfare.