Perspectives on Assessment of C2 systems: A knowledge overview for future development of methodology

Authors:

  • Johan Nordström
  • Per-Anders Oskarsson
  • Per S Andersson
  • Charlotte Stenius
  • Alexander Melbi
  • Zackarias Alenljung
  • Mirko Thorstensson

Publish date: 2024-10-21

Report number: FOI-R--5634--SE

Pages: 63

Written in: Swedish

Keywords:

  • Assessment; Evaluation; Method; Methodology; C2 systems

Abstract

Assessments are important for generating necessary knowledge to improve the Swedish Armed Forces' command and control (C2) systems. However, the concept of assessment lacks a clear definition and is employed with varying meanings both within the Armed Forces and in everyday language. The report addresses assessments from different perspectives and is based on literature studies as well as experience from carrying out assessments. The report discusses how organised complexity affects the possibilities for assessments, how measurement and assessments can impact sociotechnical systems, and various existing frameworks and methodologies for assessments. The conducted literature study, combined with experiences from assessments, has shown that there is no universal methodology that can be used to assess all C2 systems. Due to the complex nature of C2 systems, it is not possible to develop a general assessment methodology. Instead, the methodology needs to be tailored to the purpose of the specific assessment, focusing on the aspects of the C2 system deemed most relevant to assess in the particular case. Continued development of evaluation methodology is suggested to be carried out in the form of case studies and to be based on the process in NATO's framework for C2 assessment.