Shaping the Security Environment: Incorporating Human-Centered Design Within Security Cooperation Planning
Abstract
Security Cooperation is conducted within a complex environment against innovative and adaptive adversaries. Reduced barriers to access of advanced weapons such as drones, enhanced munitions, and computer technology have increased the will of US adversaries to contest US resolve in multiple domains. These variables in combination with access to social media create a formidable enemy network that has resulted in an increased enemy capacity to conduct anti-access and area denial (A2D2) of US and partner forces. Additionally, this approach allows enemies and adversaries of the United States to accrue strategic gains while avoiding direct conflict with the US military. This competitive arena that exists below the threshold of war is often referred to as the gray zone. Security Cooperation (SC) activities build partner capacity that promotes US security interests and directly and indirectly shapes this complex environment. This monograph examines the incorporation of human-centered design as a way to enhance US Army SC activities to shape the security environment and achieve strategic goals. This method works within the Army design methodology (ADM) and demonstrates a way to create unity of effort for activities with unified action partners that mutually support US goals. Utilizing the Plan Colombia case study demonstrates how United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) and United States Special Operations Command South (USSOCSOUTH) SC achieved enduring results applying a human-centered design approach.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 24, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1070994
Entities
People
- Michael L. Casiano
Organizations
- School of Advanced Military Studies