The secret’s out—generative AI is transforming open-source intelligence workflows, and yet, it’s not a panacea. Rather, it’s the collaboration between gen AI and the OSINT practitioner that is key. The OSINT practitioner is firmly in the driver’s seat of this collaboration, and they require a new set of skills if they’re to attain their license to operate. These skills, aptly named 'fusion skills’, enable OSINT practitioners to work seamlessly at the human-machine interface, leveraging AI as a force multiplier while ensuring human-directed analytical rigor and ethical integrity.
In the context of AI and intelligence, the term 'fusion skills' was first coined in 2018 by Wilson and Daugherty in their article, Collaborative intelligence: Humans and AI are joining forces. Given the breakneck pace of technological change, even 2018 may feel like eons ago, yet the concept remains just as relevant today.
As we launch the Leveraging Generative AI for OSINT course, we are focusing on the key fusion skills OSINT practitioners need to maximize the potential of AI in intelligence workflows. Here is our take on the Top 5 fusion skills critical for OSINT practitioners:
Conclusion
The key differentiator for an OSINT practitioner’s success is not a question of if they use AI, but how they use it. By focusing on these five fusion skills, OSINT practitioners can harness AI’s power while maintaining the tradecraft, judgment, and ethical standards that define intelligence excellence.
As we introduce our Leveraging Generative AI for OSINT course, we invite OSINT practitioners to explore how these skills can be put into practice, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of intelligence work in an AI-accelerated world.
To enroll in this course or to check out our other online or instructor-led training offerings to level up your OSINT, head on over to the website!