"Science
starts with a problem…" - KARL POPPER
OUR PRODUCT IS
INSIGHT FOR DECISION-MAKERS
The DSD at IMT provides scientific problem-solving capability.
Our focus is on developing the necessary variety of scientific
skill to cover problems of as wide a range as possible, as
well as to focus our attention on problems in the maritime
context. To accomplish this we provide the following services:
- Scientific problem-solving as knowledge creation.
We are aware that solving problems using the scientific
method has proven itself to be the most successful vehicle
of knowledge creation. We therefore provide a service in
knowledge and innovation management.
- Generic Decision Support Tools. We are
constantly defining and developing generic tools for decision
support application. We use these tools where relevant in
our modeling, providing decision-support tools for decision-makers.
We also have commercial tools as required for our work.
We currently have the following tools:
- SIPro. Systemic Information Processing
tool, which facilitates knowledge processing across
system levels. It is able to dynamically define information
structures and processing algorithms as required per
application. We have done various implementations of
SIPro for users, including a wide range of applications
such as information systems, electronic filing, project
management, and metadata management.
- ICE. Impact of Change Evaluator,
which facilitates the integration of hard measurements
with value systems of managers. It is a management tool
which enables managers to visualize the ongoing level
of performance of the systems they manage. It is able
to define structures and value systems dynamically and
also to highlight trends and risks to the manager. We
use this tool in the implementation of the SANDF Combat
Readiness Model (also known as the Effectiveness Model).
It utilizes the methods of systems engineering for integrating
to higher system levels.
- HAPPI. Hierarchical Accounting Planning
and Projection Integrator. This generic tool provides
for the management of spending against a budget, although
it is not restricted to financial modelling. It also
allows for dynamically-defined what-if scenarios. We
have used this tool to provide the SAN with a Human
Resources Budgeting Tool.
- Team Expert Choice. This is a commercial
tool using the AHP methodology to define value systems.
This tool is also able to provide for (anonymous) voting,
but does not require it
- Technology, Capability and R&D life cycle. We are involved in all life cycle phases of technology,
capability and R&D, and provide a service of problem-solving
in any of these phases.
- Current areas of expertise. We develop
expertise in specific areas of expertise as well as specific
areas of application. Currently we focus on the following:
- Areas of expertise. Combat readiness modeling, data
analysis and numerical modeling (including operations
research), artificial intelligence, complexity science,
conceptual modeling, problem-solving process, systems
thinking, decision-making, management and organizational
science, simulation.
- Areas of application. Maritime warfare paradigms,
logistics modeling, human resources modeling, strategic
decision support, knowledge management, decision support
tools development, maritime surveillance.
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