To Overcome Challenges in Technology Development in Support of C2 through Social Learning

Abstract

Developing information and communication technology in support of C2 is a difficult task. The origin of this difficulty can be traced back to two key challenges: the alignment of user needs with technical capabilities, and the timely discovery and understanding of the impact those technologies have on the C2 domain. This paper focuses on successfully overcoming these challenges. It shows that the resolution of these challenges requires learning, specifically, learning about C2 user-requirements, the capabilities of technology, and how the two of them interact in the C2 user domain. After decades of research in the field of technology assessment (TA), learning and understanding the interaction of users' needs and technology has proven to be fundamental to successful technology development. Furthermore, its importance is becoming more and more recognized in the field of C2 assessment and development as well, as shown by Mandeles, Hone and Terry (1996). Based on insights from constructive technology assessment (CTA), the author has developed a model that facilitates learning in technology development. In particular it addresses the two key challenges - alignment and timely impact assessment - to the successful development of technology in support of C2. The NATO code of best practice for C2 assessment (COBP) plays an important role in this model. C2 is still a rather diffuse and complex concept. Yet, if researchers want to be successful in technology development, the articulation of C2 user-needs is crucial. The COBP provides a structure for rigorous discovery and articulation of C2 user-needs. As such it could play an important role in the successful development of technology in support of C2. (2 figures, 18 refs., 15 briefing charts)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 2003
Accession Number
ADA425262

Entities

People

  • Swentibold G. Stoop

Organizations

  • University of Twente

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Aircrafts
  • Artillery
  • Best Practices
  • Command And Control
  • Human Behavior
  • Information Operations
  • Information Systems
  • Lessons Learned
  • Military Operations
  • Nato
  • Netherlands
  • Operations Research
  • Organizational Structure
  • Social Problems
  • Technology Assessment
  • Training

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Military Science and Technology Research and Modernization.
  • Military Training and Readiness Simulation
  • Systems Analysis and Design