As leaders in the field of analytic techniques for the US Intelligence Community, Kathy and Randy Pherson are leveraging their expertise from running a successful government contracting business, Pherson Associates, to providing these capabilities to private industry, foreign governments, and academic institutions operating around the world through their new company, Globalytica, LLC.
Globalytica trains analysts, managers, and companies worldwide in rigorous analytic processes, accurate analysis, and insightful techniques of discovery for optimal decision making and solutions. The company has three core business areas: Intelligence Services, Security, and Business Analytics.
“The knowledge base and experience of our two distinct companies enable us to build customized training platforms and programs that meet the unique needs of our customers. We help organizations integrate analytics into their strategic planning and decision making processes,” said Randy Pherson, President of Pherson Associates and CEO of Globalytica.
Are You a Master Thinker?
Randy Pherson, CEO Globalytica
When I hear analysts observe that they do not have time to use Structured Analytic Techniques, my response is to challenge them to develop these five habits of thinking when they are not rushing to meet a deadline. A little time spent practicing how to use some core structured techniques will train you to use them instinctively when time is short. Incorporating these Master Thinker habits
into your everyday thought processes will increase your impact and save you valuable time.
A good analytic thinker who has mastered the core structured analytic techniques will instinctively:
- Know when to challenge key assumptions – usually far more often than you think!
- Consider alternative explanations or hypothesis for all.
- Look for inconsistent data that provides sufficient justification to quickly discard a candidate hypothesis.
- Focus on the key drivers that best explain what has occurred or what is about to happen.
- Anticipate the customers’ needs and understand the overarching context within which the analysis is being done.
Do you already use one (or more) of these techniques? Then congratulate yourself! Most analysts have yet to learn how to internalize all five habits. Learning how to do so takes a determined effort, but can be accomplished within a reasonable period of time.
The next few editions of The Analytic Insider will focus on the five habits of the Master Thinker, including tips on practicing using the techniques at work and at home. With every repetition, these concepts will become habits that are ingrained and instinctive, leading to better analysis produced in a shorter period of time.
Back by Popular Demand – Diagnostic Structured Analytic Techniques (DSAT)
Online Certificate Course
Experience analytic tools and techniques. Question preconceived notions. Identify the dynamics of an issue or problem. Learn how to re-frame questions to get better answers. Test your hypotheses. Refine your thinking. Explain the outcome to your boss, or co-worker.
These techniques, developed and taught by former intelligence officers, uncover information gaps and inform future choices. Students can take a final exam to receive a Certificate in Diagnostic Structured Analytic Techniques.
SOLD OUT – December 2, 4, 9, 16 (Total of four 3-hour sessions)
February 17, 19, 23, 25 (Total of four 3-hour sessions)
Certificate Program
Globalytica offers four Assessment-Based Analytic Certificate Courses designed to improve the quality of analytic and critical thinking skills in government and private industry.
Questions?
(703) 390-9900