The Intelligence Process

Defining the intelligence requirement

Before beginning any type of intelligence gathering activity, there must be a clearly defined need. Through a detailed interview with our client and our subsequent risk/vulnerability assessment, we can quickly identify a specific investigative direction to fulfill the client's requirement.

Collection

With a clear definition of the intelligence requirement, our investigators accomplish specific information gathering activities. Operations may be overt (public records, databases, open interview, etc.), and/or may be covert (surreptitious audio/video surveillance, undercover activity, informant development, etc.)

Reporting and dissemination

When in the opinion of the operation participants the intelligence requirement defined in the original assessment has been met, or further collection activity would be futile, collection activity ceases and a final report prepared for the client. Dissemination to the appropriate party(ies) is important "follow through". Undisciplined dissemination of investigative results can and often does lead to 'blown cover' of investigators, witnesses, informants and other confidential sources of information, therefore controlled dissemination is a vital part of the intelligence process.

Analysis

As information is received during the intelligence collection phase, it is organized and rigorously analyzed. A cogent preliminary report reveals gaps, lack of clarity in specific areas, and new investigative leads to follow. Effective analysis may recommend further, more targeted overt and/or covert collection.