Information fusion mangement and enterpise processing

Abstract

Since the inception of the Joint Director of the Labs (JDL) Information Fusion model in the 1990s, there have been multiple updates meant to improve the use of the model for complex information systems design and management. In this paper, we explore contemporary issues in information fusion design: (1) sensing: from data to information (D2I) processing, (2) reporting: from human computer interaction (HCI) terminals to user involvement (H2U), and (3) the enterprise: from collected to resourced (C2R) information management. D2I reflects the fact that traditional fusion methods focused only on data from a sensor; however, current net-centric applications require intelligent situation awareness that includes processing of information from non-sensor resources for mission effectiveness. H2U demonstrates that completely automated systems are not realizable and that users are required to be involved for efficient decision making. Finally, C2R moves from immediate data collection to fusion of information over an enterprise (e.g,. data mining, database queries and storage, and source analysis for pedigree). By updating the JDL with D2I, H2U, and C2R concepts, they serve as informative themes for future complex information fusion management and system design.