What is it?
The intelligence cycle is a process that describes the common steps taken to produce intelligence. There are multiple models but there are commonly 5 steps, but some models have up to 7.
- Direction
- Collection/ Collation
- Processing/ Evaluation
- Analysis
- Dissemination
The intelligence cycle is not always followed strictly and there is a constant cycle between phases. This was called the ‘adaptive intelligence cycle’ by one of my previous managers. There may be time when the information must be disseminated before it completes the cycle. Additionally, in the real world there are constant adjustments that must be made due to changing events or priorities.
Why is it important?
Why should you care about it? The intelligence cycle is the corner stone of intel theory. It underpins the primary function of an intelligence analyst, informing decision makers. It is also a good way to introduce people to intelligence analysis. It’s also why I have chosen to introduce it in my first blog post.
What are the criticisms of the intelligence cycle?
There are a few criticisms of the intelligence cycle. One is that decision makers do not wait for the the intelligence cycle to finish before making decisions. This happened many times to me at the Real Time Intelligence Centre, where I would spend an hour writing an assessment only to hear that the suspect had been apprehended. In these case, I was too slow. Another criticism is the overemphasis in the intelligence community on the cycle. Finally, it is not always apparent that decision makers want intelligence that guides decision making, rather intelligence that confirms existing policies. Despite the criticisms I believe that the cycle serves a purpose and that’s why I am interested in it.
How can you use it?
The way that I use the intelligence cycle is to imagine how I can best implement each of the steps and I go through the list in my head one by one. This way I can try and improve the process at every level. For example, in the direction phase I try to ask the person setting the direction or requirements as many questions as possible, so I can get the best start. This also helps save time because it may save me from collecting against topics or issues the client did not require. The process of thinking through how I am using each step ends up being a useful tool for me to ensure I provide timely, accurate and actionable intelligence.
Wrap Up
Despite the criticisms of the intelligence cycle it is a useful tool to understand the intelligence process and can be used as an introductory framework for developing your own intelligence analysis skills. Ask yourself, have you used the cycle previously? If so, how could you have improved at each phase of the cycle?