Description
This Ofqual approved, accredited qualification will explore the methods used to conduct and
manage intelligence processes. It is designed for people entering the profession or those that may
have experience of intelligence work but need to refresh their skills. The qualification will be based
on well-established principles developed from military intelligence techniques and the police
National Intelligence Model. They are applicable to commercial organisations and a broad spectrum
of public sector audiences. Students will learn the theory that underpins intelligence operations.
They will go on to understand collection methods available to agencies. Analytical principles will be
an important part of the course as will techniques for disseminating data. The course will be largely
practical and will require student participation. Students will learn to think about problems in a
different way. They will understand the influences that distort rational thinking and how to develop
hypotheses in a logical systematic way. This qualification is accredited by the Ofqual approved
awarding body ProQual.
Benefits
This is the only short commercially available intelligence analysis qualification available in the UK.
IMSL has highly experienced analysts and instructors who can draw from a wide range of
experiences in the public and private sector. The course will teach intelligence best practice but will
also make the student challenge normal ideas and methods of working. It will instil a questioning
and dynamic approach to problem solving. The analytical techniques learned can be applied to any
working environment involving problem solving from commercial to public sector at the macro and
local level.
Intended Audience
The qualification is suitable for individuals and groups from the public, private and charitable
sectors, with examples and use cases drawn from IMSL’s extensive experience of implementing
intelligence management processes in all three of these domains. The course is ideally suited to
those entering the intelligence community or looking to broaden their understanding of intelligence
led working practices.
Ability
No previous experience is required.
Language
The course will be taught in English. All students will need to prove an ability to speak English to a
high standard.
Delivery style
Online students will be provided with a secure link to our internationally respected training delivery
portal “Moodle” with video teaching, examples and case studies with online support and feedback
to succeed. The classroom based course will be 50% instructor led theory, 40% practical session and
10% classroom discussion. These lessons will be supplemented with printable user guides and
additional resources. A personal tutor will be on hand to support them through the course.
Duration
Online students can pace their studies for themselves and work at whatever time suits them –
typically, achieving course completion in the range of 2 weeks to 3 months from enrolment.
Classroom based courses are 5 days.
Assessment
Students will be assessed throughout the course. Both classroom and online students will complete
their assignments online. The tutor will support them through this process.
Modules
1. Fundamentals
Understanding the concept of the Intelligence cycle. Understanding the principles of intelligence within a commercial and non-commercial environment. Using the National Intelligence Model and how it can be effectively applied for a wider audience. The importance of direction to intelligence procedures.
2. Collection
Understand the broad scope of collection assets that may be available to an intelligence team. Understand the utility of imagery, communications and human intelligence to the collection process. Understand the growing role of open source intelligence and social media to modern intelligence teams. This will broaden into a discussion on the importance of big data to intelligence gatherers. Techniques for managing collection and the passage of data between organisations will be explored.
3. Intelligence Processing
Comprehension of the various stages of the analytical process from collation, through evaluation, analysis and integration to the production of an assessment. Analytical techniques will encompass: the use of analytical software, statistical analysis, temporal, geospatial and link analysis. Understanding the biases and fallacies that can affect their products and the techniques that can mitigate these.
4. Practical Application
Develop the ability to use structured analytical techniques such as analysis of competing hypothesis and brainstorming. Become familiar with analytical tools like Power BI. Develop skills in written, graphic and verbal communication that enhance product dissemination. Understand the best practices and skills needed for working in an intelligence team and the role of intelligence on operational planning.
Practicalities
For classroom courses, we can assist with local accommodation bookings in the Bath area. Tea,
coffee and soft drinks are provided throughout the course as well as a buffet lunch. (Special dietary
requirements must be noted at the time of booking)
For more information, or to book this course, please email training@intelmsl.com or use our online enquiry form.