Structured Analytic Techniques for Intelligence Analysis

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Foreword by John McLaughlin
Preface
Chapter 1 ¿ Introduction and Overview
1.1 Our Vision
1.2 Role of Structured Analytic Techniques
1.3 History of Structured Analytic Techniques
1.4 The Expanding Use of Structured Analytic Techniques
1.5 Selection of Techniques for This Book
1.6 Quick Overview of Chapters
Chapter 2 ¿ The Role of Structured Techniques
2.1 Two Types of Thinking
2.2 Developing a Taxonomy of Structured Analytic Techniques
2.3 Dealing with Cognitive Limitations
2.4 Matching Cognitive Limitations to Structured Techniques
2.5 Combating Digital Disinformation
Chapter 3 ¿ Choosing the Right Technique
3.1 The Six Families
3.2 Core Techniques
3.3 Selecting the Right Technique
3.4 Projects Using Multiple Techniques
3.5 Common Errors in Selecting Techniques
3.6 Making a Habit of Using Structured Techniques
Chapter 4 ¿ Practitioner's Guide to Collaboration
4.1 Social Networks and Analytic Teams
4.2 Dividing the Work
4.3 Value of Collaborative Processes
4.4 Common Pitfalls with Small Groups
4.5 Benefiting from Diversity
4.6 Advocacy versus Objective Inquiry
4.7 Leadership and Training
Chapter 5 ¿ Getting Organized
5.1 Sorting
5.2 Ranking, Scoring, and Prioritizing
5.3 Matrices
5.4 Process Maps
5.5 Gantt Charts
Chapter 6 ¿ Exploration Techniques
6.1 Simple Brainstorming
6.2 Cluster Brainstorming
6.3 Nominal Group Technique
6.4 Circleboarding(TM)
6.5 Starbursting
6.6 Mind Maps and Concept Maps
6.7 Venn Analysis
6.8 Network Analysis
Chapter 7 ¿ Diagnostic Techniques
7.1 Key Assumptions Check
7.2 Chronologies and Timelines
7.3 Cross-Impact Matrix
7.4 Multiple Hypothesis Generation
7.5 Diagnostic Reasoning
7.6 Analysis of Competing Hypotheses
7.7 Inconsistencies Finder(TM)
7.8 Deception Detection
7.9 Argument Mapping
Chapter 8 ¿ Reframing Techniques
8.1 Cause and Effect Techniques
8.2 Challenge Analysis Techniques
8.3 Conflict Management

Randolph H. Pherson is president of Pherson Associates, LLC; CEO of Globalytica, LLC; and a founding director of the nonprofit Forum Foundation for Analytic Excellence. He teaches advanced analytic techniques and critical thinking skills to analysts in the government and private sector. Mr. Pherson collaborated with Richards Heuer Jr. in developing and launching use of Analysis of Competing Hypotheses, and he developed several analytic techniques for the CIA's Sherman Kent School, many of which were incorporated in his Handbook of Analytic Tools and Techniques. He coauthored Critical Thinking for Strategic Intelligence with Katherine Hibbs Pherson, Cases in Intelligence Analysis: Structured Analytic Techniques in Action with Sarah Miller Beebe, and several other guides for analysts on writing, briefing, indicators, and managing the production process. Mr. Pherson completed a twenty-eight-year career in the Intelligence Community in 2000, last serving as National Intelligence Officer (NIO) for Latin America. Previously at the CIA, Mr. Pherson managed the production of intelligence analysis on topics ranging from global instability to Latin America, served on the Inspector General's staff, and was chief of the CIA's Strategic Planning and Management Staff. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Intelligence Medal for his service as NIO and the Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal. Mr. Pherson received his B.A. from Dartmouth College and an M.A. in international relations from Yale University.