WG 1 - Measures of Merit
Information
MORS Workshop:
Operations Analysis Support to Network Centric Operations
A great deal of work has gone into developing a conceptual
framework for Network Centric Warfare. An
extensive body of literature exists and robust discussion continues.
Measures of merit have been addressed often in this context.
Several approaches have been proposed for measuring the effectiveness of
Network Centric Operations. Categories
of NCO metrics have been defined and hierarchies of measures have been proposed,
but much remains to be done to get beyond the conceptual level and define
measures for which data can be obtained. Much of the discussion has focused on measures of performance
for the network that enables NCO. One
reason for this inclination is that, relative to other areas of NCO theory, data
is readily available. However, NCO
is not simply a new communications system with embedded decision support.
NCO is supposed to be a better way to employ force that requires a new
infrastructure for maximum effectiveness. The
goal is to create the most effective force, not simply the best network.
The new infostructure is a means, not an end.
Therefore, it is important to examine the impact of NCO technologies and
practices across the physical, information, cognitive and social domains.
To devise metrics for these other aspects of NCO, several
approaches are under consideration for the workshop. The Network Centric Operations Conceptual Framework is a
useful staring place. In addition,
the working group will examine “pockets” of NCO capability that already
exist such as prosecution of time sensitive targets.
To get beyond measures of performance, value chain theory has been
identified as a potentially useful way to identify measures of effectiveness.
The NCO value chain will be examined at lower levels of detail than in
previous efforts. Information
theory also provides possibilities for developing new measures.
For example, which measures best characterize the difference in outcomes
with perfect knowledge as opposed to those with incomplete data?
Research on cognitive and social aspects also will be reviewed to ensure
that the appropriate metrics are considered.
