Case Study
Case Study
A military unit faced a significant issue in collecting, sharing, and searching for information about external engagements and projects within the command. To address this challenge, the unit collaborated with a technology company to create a software-based solution that would enhance situational awareness and streamline processes.
The research employed the Mission Model Canvas and methodologies from the Hacking for Defense program, which helped to gather insights into the exact requirements for the solution to be accepted and effectively utilized by the military unit and its subordinate units. Based on this information, a high-fidelity prototype was generated, and through iterative modifications, a technologically feasible and implementable solution was arrived at.
The research employed the Mission Model Canvas and methodologies from the Hacking for Defense program at the University of West Florida taught by Dr. Dallas Snider and Dr. Donavan Chau, in partner with our problem sponsor Captain Team Nolan which helped to gather insights into the exact requirements for the solution to be accepted and effectively utilized by the military unit and its subordinate units. Based on this information, a high-fidelity prototype was generated, and through iterative modifications, a technologically feasible and implementable solution was arrived at.
A thorough research was conducted to understand the needs and requirements of the unit and its personnel. Over 40 interviews were conducted, revealing the necessary features and functionalities of an effective solution. Based on this information, a high-fidelity prototype was developed, which was then refined and optimized to meet the technological feasibility. The final solution employed Amazon Web Services, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning to provide a secure and efficient storage, query, and reporting mechanism. A custom mobile application, utilizing speech-to-text functionality, allowed personnel to narrate their experiences and load the data into the database. The result was the creation of a cutting-edge platform designed to improve situational awareness and streamline processes within the unit.The final solution, referred to as the Enhanced Situational Awareness Platform (ESAP), leverages Amazon Web Services (AWS) and artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to provide a secure storage mechanism, as well as a query and reporting mechanism, for all data obtained by personnel in the field. The data is input into the AWS database via a custom mobile application that uses speech-to-text functionality to allow a user to narrate their experiences.
This research effort provides valuable insights into the development of a software solution for military use, with a focus on efficient information collection and dissemination, security considerations, and user acceptance and utilization. The findings and the developed solution are presented in this white paper for consideration and further exploration in similar contexts.
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
Phase I Proposal - Awarded (2019)
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