Formal reporting for information exploitation and dissemination in Joint ISR

In complex operational scenarios where multiple nations and forces cooperate, flexible System of Systems (SoS) architectures being customizable to specific operations are needed. Relevant operational processes as defined within Joint ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) and the Intelligence Cycle need to be supported. To maximize efficiency and effectiveness of Joint ISR capabilities, each Joint ISR result needs to answer the corresponding information requirement accurately. Commanders must receive the relevant information in a condensed, well-prepared manner instead of being overflowed with large amounts of (raw) data. Ensuring a common understanding of each exchanged piece of information within the defence coalition is also of utmost importance. Architectures supporting these requirements need to make use of relevant standards and agreements for data/ information management. As reports may be provided by all Joint ISR capabilities, the topic of reporting is of high importance, here. Within the described context, our publication deals with formal reporting which can be defined as organizational process at which relevant information is provided as formal reports, i.e., as documents being structured according to pre-defined (agreed) rules. We present means for ensuring allied interoperability and further (semi-)automatic processability of the information being contained in formal reports by technical means and under consideration of the relevant doctrines and standards. We also address specific means needed to ensure the creation of formal reports of high quality. Finally, we discuss current issues and new requirements on formal reporting which have to be still addressed in the field of Joint ISR.