Educing Information: Interrogation - National Intelligence University

freedom of action and maximize the chances for survival and
prosperity. One does so through a combination of rapidity,
variety, harmony, and initiative. It is these that are the core
of “Boyd’s Way.” Rapidity of action or reaction is required to
maintain or regain initiative. Variety is required so one is not
predictable, so there is no pattern recognition for a foe to allow
him to know of your actions in advance and thus plan to defeat
them. Harmony is the fit with the environment and others
operating in it. Initiative – taking charge of your own destiny—
is required if one is to master circumstances rather than be
mastered by them. All of course, would be focused on attaining
the specified objective that is implicit in this discussion. 678
The specifi ed objective noted in this passage is a key to the focus addressed
previously. Focus rests upon several, mutually supportive objectives that will,
together, inform the OODA cycle. One fundamental objective, or Schwerpunkt,
of the OODA strategy would have consistent and adaptable applicability to the
EI process regardless of the circumstances (i.e., source, setting, intelligence
requirements, etc.), and that is: Diminish the adversary’s capacity for independent
action, or deny him the opportunity to survive on his own terms. 679
The OODA Loop and Educing Information
In considering how to apply the OODA Loop strategy (presented
graphically below) to the challenge of educing information from an intelligence
source, the logical first step is to examine each phase of the overall cycle
individually.
678
Grant T. Hammond, “The Essential Boyd,” Web-Only Essay, undated, URL:
http://www.belisarius.com/modern_business_strategy/hammond/essential_boyd.htm, accessed
15 January 2006.
679
In the context of educing information, the term “survival” refers to the ability of a participant
— interrogator or source — to achieve his or her specified outcomes. For the interrogator, this would
mean the collection of accurate, timely, and comprehensive information. For the source, this could
mean effective resistance or negotiating an attractive trade of information for a desired outcome (e.g.,
release, better conditions, etc.).
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