Understanding A Special Operations Role: Network Caretakers Of Knowledge-Based Communities Of Practice
Abstract
The success of special operations often depends upon building and sustaining relationships with partners. Because of the unconventional environment in which we operate, relationships can also be non-standard, including academics, reporters, and private industry. By creating a community of practice, individuals in special operations may be able to connect groups of subject-matter experts who share a deep interest in a particular activity and, through regular interaction with special operations, learn how to engage more effectively in this activity. The work of this thesis is two-fold: building a Knowledge-Based Community of Practice and applying this design method to the authors case study of Libya. This research offers a partial solution by bolstering a deeper environmental understanding through the creation of such a Knowledge-Based Community of Practice, consisting of a spectrum of individuals with differing perspectives, to engage in iterated structured dialogues. The structure, design, and life cycle of a community of practice, as well as the types and frequencies of interactions and implications of the post-information age are explored. The design methods are rooted in Army doctrine as a method of structuring interactions and distilling information to local planners. Big data sets are implemented to back-stop information from structured sessions. In short, the authors reflect on the establishment and sustainment of a community of practice to better connect with subject-matter experts who care to bring to bear a more complete understanding of an operational environment prior to, during, or in order to avoid altogether the application of military force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1053438
Entities
People
- John W. Robey
- Paul M. Webber
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School