Environmental Scanning

All organizations seek to gain an overview of their environment, but the question of where to start is crucial given the myriad dimensions and variables to track. In this book, we will examine each of these variables in detail. To begin, it is useful to adopt the funnel approach, starting with the broadest perspective possible to ensure no important variables are overlooked. As we progress, we can gradually eliminate dimensions that prove irrelevant, narrowing our focus effectively. This method helps minimize the risk of overlooking critical factors that could later cause surprises. In state and public intelligence organizations, such oversights can lead to a loss of trust and, in some cases, the replacement of responsible staff. In the private sector, the consequences are much more severe, and the entire function or department may be shut down.