Theory and application of perceptual positions to data collection and analysis in military environments

We describe a novel approach to planning and interpretation of data collection activities in military environments, based on the notions of perceptual positions of self, other and detached observer when viewing the same event. We have reinterpreted the results of previous field experiments involving the introduction of advanced equipment as part of soldier modernisation and believe that we now have a better understanding of why some attempts at data collection were not as successful as others. We propose a protocol based on the Army Practitioner providing first position data (subjective), the Analyst Observer and instrumentation providing third position data (objective) and the Subject Matter Adviser giving second position data (speculative). Although there is often a focus on first and third position data during field trials, second position data enables extrapolation to other contexts. This is especially important for exploratory studies investigating future concepts. Taken together, the combination of the three positions leads to a better strategy to enhance data collection of complex military systems.