SINTELLA : simulation of INTELLigence analysis

The development and testing of a simulation program for investigating the work of intelligence analysts is presented. The SINTELLA program is designed to create a structured information resource that represents the essential elements of intelligence analysis environments. Participants are required to produce documents and estimates of risk appropriate to the work context. The program captures a range of analyst information processing behaviour, including selecting, combining and evaluating information. Two versions of SINTELLA have been developed to date. Testing of these has shown promise from a number of perspectives. Experimental participants find the simulations easy to use. Performance data generated shows variability and sensitivity to both characteristics of the task and the psychological predispositions of the participants. Ongoing work with the program is involving national and international policing and security organisations.11 page(s