Innovation Patterns in Some Successful C2 Technologies

Abstract : In a world of rapidly advancing commercial technology, the U.S. military often still struggles to deliver state-of-the art information technologies for C2 to warfighters and commanders. Some recent success stories include the Tactical Ground Reporting (TIGR) system, the Command Post of the Future (CPOF), and the Combined Information Data Network Exchange (CIDNE). These cases can be characterized using a Kline chain-linked model of innovation, with very strong iterative links between R&D and "markets" (military end users in this context). These initiatives also made effective use of available commercial technology, and displayed "edge innovation" by end users. The initiatives identified pressing needs with a minimum of process formalism, and then filled those needs quickly, with dedicated development teams for continual refinement. They often temporarily bypassed normal procurement channels. Initial deployments were often limited, with "at-risk" adoption by commanders, allowing crucial in-theater experimentation and feedback loops in the development process. As the technologies proved useful, deployment expanded. Despite potential problems in interoperability and security, and conflicts with the military bureaucracy, such "Kline-like" innovation shows promise for some C2 technologies.