The U.S. Needs Cutting-Edge OSINT Teams

The growing importance of open-source intelligence (OSINT) is underscored in a strategy from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), which positions OSINT as the “INT of first resort.”

The ODNI's strategic vision for OSINT is centered around driving innovation and delivering new capabilities to maintain a competitive edge. Key elements of this strategy include:

• Developing and adopting sophisticated tools to exploit the rapidly expanding open-source data and platforms
• Embracing the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and human language technologies to enhance OSINT capabilities
• Fostering external partnerships with industry and academia to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative OSINT tools and tradecraft

To effectively implement the ODNI's OSINT strategy, organizations must assemble a team that goes beyond traditional open-source researchers. This team must be a dynamic blend of subject-matter experts and technologists, each bringing a unique set of skills and capabilities to the table.

While maintaining a group of open-source researchers is essential, these individuals must be paired with technologists who can quickly solve technical problems, manage data, and apply new technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. This synergy between subject matter expertise and technological prowess is crucial for unlocking the full potential of open-source data.

Access to information is not a guarantee in the great power competition. Technologists within the OSINT team must be constantly searching for new technical avenues to access the relevant open-source data. This may involve developing custom software, automating data collection and processing, or leveraging emerging technologies to overcome access barriers.

Fostering an innovative mindset within the OSINT team is paramount. Team members must be willing to experiment, test new capabilities, and embrace a culture of continuous improvement. This agility and adaptability will be essential in keeping pace with the rapidly evolving open-source landscape and the shifting dynamics of strategic competition.

As the great-power competition intensifies, organizations must equip themselves with the most innovative and cutting-edge OSINT capabilities. By partnering with a provider that can assemble a high-caliber team of subject matter experts and technologists, you can ensure that your organization is positioned to deliver the critical insights needed to maintain a strategic advantage.