Integration of Psycho-Social models and methods in NATO's approach to operations; A review of NATO Research and Technology Organization (RTO) Systems Analysis Studies (SAS-074)

NATO's Research and Technology Organization (RTO) Systems, Analysis, Studies Task Force (SAS-074) is currently developing a process to increase the utilization of human and social-science based Theories, Models and Methods (TM&Ms) by planners and operational researchers in support of these operations. The paper outlines the approach the group is taking. A two-stage process has been developed which provides guidance to analysts and planners to help them: develop an overview of their operational problem from a range of Psycho-Social (P-S) perspectives; develop appropriate P-S objectives within the planning process; and, provide a knowledge base to promote the appropriate use of P-S TM&Ms throughout the Analysis -Planning — Execution — Assessment cycle. It also reviews the insights gained from other NATO RTO activities, including the recent SAS-071 workshop on Modeling and Simulation (M&S) in Irregular Warfare and highlights the development of a virtual community of interest.