ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the need for a coherent process to address the implementation—or auditing—of intelligence function and presents a sample process to implement intelligence in the corporate security environment, known as the Intelligence Estimate. The Intelligence Estimate has been created to guide the corporate intelligence practitioner seeking to implement an internal function. The Estimate is generally written up in a spreadsheet or table, using a three-column format. These are entitled Factors, Analysis, and Deductions. In most organizations there will be at least some form of intelligence work ongoing without recognition anyway, so at least incorporating this into a more efficient structure should bring a quick benefit. The maxim that prior planning and preparation prevents a certain form of poor performance holds particularly true in intelligence work. The outcome-driven/effects-based approach is particularly useful in terms of delivering meaningful products at any stage, and the total approach outlined can be applied in microcosm to any discrete intelligence task.