Crowdsourcing ISR: a systems thinking approach to knowledge dynamics in intelligence operations through application of collaborative filters

Abstract

The Marine Corps Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Enterprise (MCISR-E) faces ever-increasing complexity in the conduct of expeditionary operations. This research seeks to explore computer-supported collaborative work of the MCISR-E. Properties of networks and complexity are explored through a systems thinking perspective on collective intelligence. Online social networking information technology is examined for demonstration of emergent knowledge creation for sensemaking in the computer-supported collaborative work of MCISR-E. This is provided through use cases of commercial off the shelf online social networking technology and crowdsourcing applications. Crowdsourcing through social networking technology as it benefits both collaborative information seeking and collaborative filters are suggested as possible fit to the MCISR-E. Use cases demonstrate this fit at the technical, organizational and individual levels. The MCISR-E is a complex adaptive system, designed to raise the collective intelligence of Marine Corps units. Collective intelligence is defined as groups of people doing things intelligently. MCISR-E must effectively demonstrate sensemaking through knowledge creation to achieve this goal. MCISR-E processes must predict and react to events by group work capitalizing on current and new technology.