Advanced Analytic Tools and Techniques Workshop

Experienced analysts who are seeking to learn new tools and improve the sophistication with which they can apply these tools. Analysts can deepened their understanding of some tools, discover new ones, and explore practical applications for using the tools in their written reports.

Length:

3 days

Who should take this course?

Analysts are exposed to latest insights on tools development, especially the newer collaborative tools. They can also exchange ideas with other members of the Intelligence Community on how these tools are being, and can be, used in real-life situations.

Cost:

Description:

This workshop presents advanced tools, many of them developed by Pherson Associates. In addition to learning some new tools, emphasis will be placed on applying the tools effectively in collaborative settings. Analysts practice using each tool by participating in small group, hands-on exercises.

Concepts introduced in this workshop include:

• What tools help analysts think outside of the box?
• How can we use Quadrant Crunching to contend with the perplexing question: "What don't we know that we don't know?"
• What makes structured brainstorming work well?
• How do we manage risk in an effective manner at various decision making levels?
• How can you use visualization techniques to enrich your analysis and get a better grasp on complex interactions?
• How can you use the Analysis of Competing Hypothesis tool in a setting where analysts are separated by location and time?
• How does The Pre-Mortem Assessment help you reduce the risk of analytic failure?
• How best can I integrate these tools and techniques into my regular work routine?

Agenda:

Day 1
Introduction and Collaboration Techniques
Cognitive Traps Exercise
Small Group Dynamics
Imagination Techniques
Quadrant Crunching Exercise

Day 2
Risk Analysis
Exercise: Strategic, Tactical, and Operations Risk Assessment Case Study
Video on Mount Pinatubo Eruption
Using Data Visualization Techniques in Analysis

Day 3
Using Data Visualization Techniques in Analysis
Introduction to the Analysis of Competing Hypotheses (ACH)
Collaborative ACH Exercise
Introduction to Pre-Mortem Assessment and Pre-Mortem exercise
Using Advanced Techniques in Your Organization
Incorporating These Techniques into Your Daily Routine
Wrap-Up: Key Insights Gleaned

If you're interested in future runnings of a course,
please send an email to courseregistration@pherson.org
to request information or call 703-390-9903.