From a Rigid Cycle to a Collaborative System: Dynamics in the Production of Strategic Intelligence

Abstract

Since its inception, the intelligence cycle has been defined as a systematic and sequential process through which information is transformed into useful intelligence for decision-making. This model was adopted by many intelligence agencies around the world, and although it was important as an initial and doctrinal concept, in practice, it caused problems of compartmentalization among the different phases of the cycle. Over time, additional challenges emerged, such as the lack of integration between the different actors, the disdain for open-source intelligence (OSINT), a certain oversizing of artificial intelligence compared to human intelligence, the dissemination of analytical products under rigid formats, and the need to produce perfectly intelligence notes. In this context, the analyst faces complex and dynamic situations, where they must employ every available tool and understand both the national and international environment to produce multidynamic intelligence products in a practical and timely manner for strategic decision-makers.