How to achieve all-source Intelligence?

What are the most important tools in the toolkit of an anti-fraud/crime/intelligence analyst? Gut feeling? Pen and paper? Algorithms? As far as DataExpert is concerned (what's in a name 😉), data should be at number one in that list or at least in a shared first place. In our digital world, collecting, processing and enriching data is the foundation of successful investigation. But often, it is not as easy as it seems.

Data fundament
Achieving a data foundation requires more than just a data source. These days, careful thought must be given in advance to such things as privacy laws, purpose bindings, archival laws and data security. A ‘simple’ traditional data duplication by means of export and import no longer fits in with the applicable data governance policy at the majority of organisations. Drawing information from unconsolidated data warehouses/data lakes seems the solution, but also comes with challenges such as realising a complete information position.

Information-driven work
In order to follow the new guidelines, it is important to consider how the data collected from a data warehouse ends up in an intelligence environment. Another question that should be asked is: what purpose will the data serve? Archive for later investigations, near-real-time analysis activities and/or create (management) reports? Or, in other words, how are you going to create an information-driven workplace as an organisation that can provide for all necessary aspects?

API
An often heard (but not beatific) route is, APIs. A logical way of thinking in a time where data duplication is less and less necessary through technical solutions, such as APIs. But there are several roads that lead to Rome. Especially since APIs are not always the solution because not every resource can be accessed that way or the API does not come up with the right output.

Global standard in the intelligence field
Looking at the intelligence world, there is a global standard in the field of relational databases and data visualisation/analysis: i2 iBase and i2 Analyst's Notebook. This software still offers the solution for analysts, even with the changing guidelines and requirements. Via an existing service bus (e.g. FME) or via i2 technology, sources can actually be accessed without the need to create an additional duplicate of already existing data. The result; a data flow that can be realised according to current data governance standards and provides a more manageable approach.

Single pane of glass
A popular term when it comes to analysis software is ‘single pane of glass’. Sometimes slightly redirected to a new meaning, but the principle remains the same; one application in which you can see and control all investigation data. By upgrading the existing i2 environment to i2 Analyst's Notebook Premium, the single pane of glass principle can be realised. One location for accessing, loading, analysing and reporting intelligence data. The future of all-source data-driven work is closer than ever!

DataExpert as a technology partner
As a partner of DataExpert, a user has access to a world of technical analysis solutions. When it comes to data governance, we can also provide support within the capabilities of an organisation. Looking for an all-source data approach? Contact us for a conversation without obligation. Together we make the world a safer place!