What makes fusion cells effective?

Abstract

Intelligence Fusion Cells (or Fusion Centers) can be an effective means to best leverage the capabilities of various organizations and agencies in pursuit of a particular mission or objective. This thesis will examine what characteristics enable three types (DoD-led, State and Local Fusion Centers, and DOJ/OGA-led fusion cells) of fusion cells to be most effective. There is no set definition for how to measure "effectiveness" across types of fusion cells. This fact created several research issues which are analyzed and discussed at length. After examining what makes these fusion cells effective, the authors will explore what lessons learned from fusion cells the U.S. government can apply to the federal level to improve interagency cooperation and efficacy. The lessons from a more micro-level (fusion cells) can be applied to the more macro-level (interagency cooperation).