From Data to Coup D'Oeil

The role of information technology in modern combat forces has meant commanders can now access increasingly larger sources of data to support their decision-making processes. While much of this technology acts as a force enhancer, the potential for information overload exists, which may lead to decision paralysis. It is important to understand the existence and nature of the relationship between commanders' vision for success on the battlefield and the information they access to formulate their situational understanding. Relevant information builds context, which informs both the vision and judgment so essential to operational decision-making in a complex security environment. A commander's modern information apparatus is based on advanced technology that facilitates the flow of data within and between organizations. That apparatus is also comprised of the individuals who give the data meaning by applying it to a particular situation and convert data into relevant information that contributes to the commander's knowledge and understanding. History provides three examples in Air Marshall Sir Hugh Dowding, Admiral Chester Nimitz, and Lieutenant General George Patton: commanders who successfully crafted an information apparatus to provide them information that was relevant to their decision-making.