Knowledge Sharing Mechanism: Enabling C2 to Adapt to Changing Environments
Abstract
The environments of software engineering and command and control (C2) are very similar because they are both instances of complex problem solving. The common nemesis to successfully developing solutions in these environments is change. The challenge of any complex problem solving process is the balance of adapting to multiple changes while keeping focused on the overall desired solution. The Knowledge Sharing Mechanism (KSM) is proposed as framework to achieve this balance. The KSM is an iterative method for understanding a complex problem, developing a framework for solving that problem, developing partial solutions for the problem, and then reassessing those partial solutions and overall framework until the complete solution has been fully developed. The KSM is based on the integration of Christopher Alexander's unfolding and differentiation processes with the image theory of C2. In image theory, there are two perspectives in developing a solution: topsight and insight. These two perspectives must be balanced in order to achieve success. Alexander's unfolding process is the basis for understanding, as an observer, the complex interactions in both software engineering and C2. The KSM uses Alexander's differentiation process, as an actor, achieving the correct balance of topsight and insight.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA481307
Entities
People
- David P. Harvie
Organizations
- United States Military Academy