The intelligence cycle incorporating the UK national intelligence model

As the title suggests the collection, analysis and dissemination of intelligence is a continuous process sometimes visualized as a circular flow.  The United Kingdom (UK) uses the National Intelligence Model (NIM) to standardise the terms and processes used for those involved in this specialist business area for law enforcement.  This enables clear and unambiguous communication within local LEAs and when sharing information with national agencies.   NIM has been developed by the UK College of Policing to enable an iterative process which ensures intelligence requirements and therefore product are continually refreshed.  The College provides training and development packages called Authorised Professional Practice (APP) that are deemed to be the official source of professional practice for policing within the UK.  The APP relevant to NOTIONES are covert policing and intelligence management, summaries of these can be found on the website (www.college.police.uk/APP).   Within the UK, there are over 50 law enforcement agencies that collect, analyse, use and share intelligence products to reduce the risk to the public from those who are prepared to break the law and cause harm.  As already suggested the use of APP helps with standarisation of processes and terms.  At the center of the use of intelligence are ethical standards and legal boundaries, this is captured in a Code of Practice has been issued by UK government for the application of the NIM and it sets out the basic principles and minimum standards for managing intelligence.   Once, each LEA has competent personnel in place and accountable processes, the strategic and tactical use of intelligence products focuses resources and reduces threat, harm and risk to businesses, communities and individuals.

Author(s): Graham Kissock, Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI)