Force XXI Technology and the Cognitive Approach to the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP)

摘要

Force XXI Technology and the Cognitive Approach to the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) by Michael C. Sevcik, US Army, 43 pages. The United States Army has invested millions of dollars and countless man hours in information technology. This investment in technology is a result of digital capabilities unimagined several years ago. It stands to reason, if better information is available faster, that better decisions will follow. The key to better decision making through digitization lies in situational awareness based on informational awareness. This knowledge will contribute to certainty and a temporal advantage over the enemy. Digital technology and the Force XXI (FXXI) efforts have tremendous potential to support decision making. Digital technology however, poses some daunting dilemmas for the Army. With the tremendous technological advantages come tradeoffs that may hinder a commander more than information awareness assists him. Information technology holds the key to improving the MDMP. However, exploitation of digitization requires a reexamination of the Army's decision-making concepts. The rational decision making model has organized the Army's staffs and guided collection of data in support of deliberate planning. The advent of instantaneous information through digitization permits the commander to receive data and information directly and this enables him to adjust his plans during an operation. This instantaneous information permits the commander to revise his intent and adjust plans to conform to the needs of the operations and take advantage of opportunities. Plans, therefore, can emerge from the commander's assessment of the situation and he can focus on information needed to support his decisions. Staff efforts historically focused on collection of data to support the MDMP. The staff in turn produced a plan and monitored the operation providing feedback to the commander.