Analyzing C2 Structures and Self-Synchronization with Simple Computational Models
Abstract
Although Command and Control (C2) is a complex activity, useful lessons about C2 can be learned from simple computational models. In this paper, the author describes experiments with two such models. The Kuramoto Model, though it has some serious limitations, provides a representation of information flow and self-synchronization in an organization. A second (agent-based) model, based on factorization, provides a representation of planning that is slightly more realistic. These models suggest that the time for an organization to reach a decision is related to the average distance in the organizational network, although the two experiments disagree on the nature of this relationship. Comparing the simulation results to empirical real-world studies confirms the relationship between time and the average network distance. Although the empirical studies suggest that this relationship is linear, the Kuramoto Model might be more realistic in its suggestion of a nonlinear relationship, since it captures the idea of information being "attenuated" during transmission by misunderstandings. The Kuramoto Model therefore reveals a need for further empirical studies in this area. The presentation includes briefing charts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA546913
Entities
People
- Anthony H. Dekker
Organizations
- Defence Science and Technology Group