Making the Transition from Analog to Digital Warfighting: Changes in Unit Behavior and Knowledge
Abstract
This report documents an initial effort to investigate the transition from analog to digital operations at brigade level and below. We interviewed experienced digital warfighters-leaders and soldiers- to identify changes in unit behavior, knowledge, and attitudes resulting from experience with digital systems. Army documents relating directly to digital operations were also reviewed. The research team's subject matter experts analyzed the cumulative data to document insights and lessons learned. The findings revealed a systematic evolution of behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes accompanying the units' transition to digital systems and operations. Initial resistance and reluctance give way to confidence and trust in digital systems as leaders and soldiers acquire basic digital proficiency and then learn bow to use the new technology to improve the warfighting process. Digital capabilities alter the way warfighters think and fight, and the operational changes find their way into procedural documents. As digitization progresses, leaders make bolder decisions due to excellent battlefield visualization and improved situational understanding. Planning, preparation, and execution of combat missions benefit from digital advantages. In parallel, the training environment evolves to support digital operations and readiness. The findings contribute to a knowledge base that will help facilitate the transition process in future digitized units. The findings point towards measures that can be used to assess Arm and unit progress in making the transition to digital warfighting.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA397575
Entities
People
- Christopher P. Strauss
- John C. Johnston
- Larry L. Meliza
- Marcus G. Dudley
- William S. Jones