Knowledge gaps hinder NIM implementation

A standardised approach to practices and products, training to address large “knowledge gaps” and an improved career structure for analysts are among the main recommendations of a new report into the early stages of implementation of the National Intelligence Model (NIM).

The Home Office report focused on implementation work carried out in three forces – Lancashire, Surrey and the West Midlands – up until spring 2002, as well as the work of the National Implementation Team up until spring 2003.

While all forces were due to be NIM compliant by April of this year, and researchers acknowledged there would be rapid changes in the intervening period, the report provides an indication of the issues forces have faced in implementing the Model.

The NIM is based around the production and use of four categories of product:

• Analytical products – specialist intelligence unit reports drawn from a range of sources.

• Intelligence products – such as strategic and tactical assessments and target profiles, drawn from analytical products.

• Knowledge products – protocols on issues such as data protection and human rights.

• System products – designed to ensure effective use of technology and IT.

However, the report found that the Implementation Team had “missed an opportunity to encourage standardisation of practices and products at an early stage”, with considerable variations already developing at BCU and force levels which will be difficult to change.

Researchers also found large “knowledge gaps” about the NIM among all ranks of officers interviewed, based in part on a “dislike of its ‘academic’ structure and language”.

The report states: “As its effectiveness depends upon all staff contributing appropriately, this suggests urgent training needs, as well as a need for creative efforts to ‘win hearts and minds’.”

And the low pay, lack of promotion prospects and competition for good analysts both within the service and from outside agencies meant that good analysts were difficult to retain, prompting recommendations for an improved career structure and better analytical resources.

The full report can be found on the Home Office website at www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/whatsnew1.html