TRAINING
The Art of Open-Source Intelligence Analysis
Learn the principles for quality open-source analysis and be exposed to best practice techniques for communicating intelligence for impact.
A foundational understanding
Learn to think critically about real world intelligence and business problems.
Evaluate and verify complex and open-source information and sources.
Identify and apply structured analytical techniques to improve analytical insights.
The Art of Open-Source Intelligence Analysis provides teams with a foundational understanding of intelligence - with a focus on open-source intelligence, and the importance and application of Structured Analytical Techniques (SATs) in conducting rigorous and impactful analysis.
With flexibility to be tailored to your organisation, this program teaches participants how to:
-
identify and evaluate sources of information
-
think critically about real world intelligence and business problems
-
identify and apply appropriate structured analytical techniques to best address those problems.
Hone Your Structured Analytical Techniques
Senior Analyst, Government
I thoroughly enjoyed ‘The Art of Open-Source Intelligence Analysis’, and thought it suitable to any current or aspiring intelligence analyst. The course was an excellent mix of theory followed by practical components, reinforcing the skills. The trainer, Kylie, was very knowledgeable and engaging, freely sharing personal experiences working in the role and encouraging course attendees to do the same.
The group size and backgrounds also contributed to how well the course ran, with the small group able to connect well with one another regardless of employer, and speak openly – this enabled a judgement-free environment and encouraged robust discussion and sharing of differing perspectives.
Overall, I found the course to be thought-provoking and insightful and would highly recommend it.
Analyst,
Industry
Thank you for a great course, I learnt loads. Your knowledge and enthusiasm shone through, which made the learning process that much more enjoyable.
The balance of inductive and deductive teaching ensured the lessons hit home across the group.
Thanks again.
Senior Analyst,
Industry
This course was well thought out and well planned. Learning about the Structured Analytical Techniques (SATs) and knowing how to apply them is very important but often being overlooked when working/ being trained as an intelligence analyst.
Kylie is a great communicator and was very engaging throughout the course. After teaching the theory, she would give us an exercise to practice what we have just learnt. She always made me feel very comfortable to participate in group activities. She was also always happy to discuss issues that were not directly related to the course but were relevant to my work.
I love that we were provided with an extensive reading list before going into the class, so that we could be prepared when going in. Also, with the book that was supplied to us, we have something to refer to after the lessons.
Key learning objectives
✓ Understand the nature, purpose and principles of intelligence.
✓ Identify and evaluate multiple intelligence sources.
✓ Think critically, conceptually and creatively about intelligence problems.
✓ Identify and apply structured analytical techniques to intelligence problems.
✓ Conduct open-source analysis and assessment.
✓ Understand best practice for producing and reporting intelligence.
Who is it for?
This course is aimed at a broad range of professionals who seek to improve their ability to analyse and interpret complex open-source material and learn more about the selection and application of Structured Analytical Techniques (SATs).
-
Intelligence Analysts who are responsible for collecting and analysing information to support decision making processes.
-
Investigators, within law enforcement, legal and corporate environments who use OSINT to gather information on suspects, witnesses, and other parties, and use SATs to analyse and interpret the information.
-
Risk Management professionals including professionals in finance, insurance and security who require insightful intelligence about cyber attacks or natural disasters.
-
Journalists who seek to verify the accuracy of sources and information and provide more astute reporting.
-
Researchers who gather data and information to support their studies and require analytical techniques to process and interpret the information to draw conclusions.
-
Students who assist in developing critical thinking and research skills, which are essential in various fields including academia, policy analysis and research.
-
People who work for non-profit organisations or private companies who work on human rights, environmental protection or humanitarian relief, who require better intelligence to make better informed decisions and better understand the context in which they operate.
Format and Cost
The Art of Open-Source Intelligence Analysis was designed as an instructor-led course running over a period of four standard working days. If required, the course can be broken up into two, 2-day sessions. The course can also be coupled with other OSINT Combine training offerings to meet individual workplace requirements.
The course includes a combination of theory and applied small group-learning activities to enhance student development and engagement. We also provide pre-course resources to maximise learning outcomes throughout the course and provide ongoing professional development for students.
