This is a framework for a Team A/Team B Analysis. It is one of several formal analytical techniques that can guide analysis, thus ensuring a robust exploration of a topic and a well-considered conclusion. Team A/Team B is effective when there are two strong, competing opinions on an analytical question. After both sides have presentedContinue reading “Team A/Team B: An Outline Of This Analytical Method”
Category Archives: Intelligence Products
Jamie Stickle: A Team A/Team B Analysis In Action
BLUF | In cases where there is strong disagreement and the evidence appears to support divergent hypotheses, consider conducting a Team A/Team B analysis. Team A/Team B Analysis is an effective methodology when two strong, divergent explanations exist, such as here with the conflict over the manner of death of Jamie Lynn Stickle, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.Continue reading “Jamie Stickle: A Team A/Team B Analysis In Action”
Hugues De La Plaza: An Analysis Of Murder Vs. Suicide
BLUF | Formal analytical techniques originally developed for use in intelligence analysis are equally effective in crime analysis. The 2007 death of dual citizen Hugues de la Plaza, who was found in his San Francisco, California, apartment, is unresolved by local authorities with conflicting hypotheses as to whether he succumbed by homicide or suicide. TwoContinue reading “Hugues De La Plaza: An Analysis Of Murder Vs. Suicide”
Beyond Tradecraft: What Happens When A Product Leaves The Building
Tradecraft is essential in maintaining the integrity of IC products. But it can only do so much when a document intended for use within the IC leaks to the public. At that point, it is management’s job to step in and shield the analyst and the intelligence unit, and to defend their work. Caveat: ThisContinue reading “Beyond Tradecraft: What Happens When A Product Leaves The Building”
Useful Intelligence Production
Intelligence production is costly in terms of both money and time, yet feedback on products is rare. Are customers satisfied, or is the analysis not always being read? Here are excerpts from an interview by CIA analyst and trainer Jack Davis* of former ambassador to India Robert D. Blackwill. Even though the article, “A Policymaker’sContinue reading “Useful Intelligence Production”