Reference no: EM132194032

Supernumerary Intelligence-Situation Description

In order to solve a problem, you first have to describe the problem. Complex problems need analytics and SI so that you can break down the complexity into simpler parts. An effective situation description requires identifying the main aim to be achieved in the problem, e.g., if your problem is air pollution, your central aim might be to reduce that pollution. How do you do this? You identify the goal variables related to the central aim, i.e., the specific things that need to be changed in order to effect that central aim.

This week you will select a problem and propose a central aim and goal variables related to that problem.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

Propose a central aim and main goal variables
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Learning Resources
Note: To access this week's required library resources, please click on the link to the Course Readings List, found in the Course Materials section of your Syllabus.

Required Reading
Dickey, J. W., Birdsall, I. A., Larkin, G. R., & Kwang, K. S. (2015). Supernumerary intelligence: A new approach to analytics for management. Charlotte, NC: Information Age Press.
. Chapter 4, "Step 1. Situation Description" (pp. 53-66)
Optional Resources

Dickey, J. W., Birdsall, I. A., Larkin, G. R., & Kwang, K. S. (2015). Supernumerary intelligence: A new approach to analytics for management. Charlotte, NC: Information Age Press.
. Chapter 3, "Case Study: Shopping Center Parking Lot Accumulation" (pp. 43-51)

Discussion: Step 1-Situation Description

Last week you learned about one important analytical tool: Quantitative CyberQuest, or QCQ. The first step of the QCQ process involves describing the situation to be analyzed. This in turn involves identifying the central aim to be achieved followed by the identification of specific goal variables related to this central aim.

To prepare:
Review Chapter 4 of your course text, focusing on Step 1 of the QCQ process.

Think of a potential issue that might need addressing within your workplace or some other issue of interest within a local, state, national, or international public agency, such as reducing carbon monoxide concentration or keeping up with the repairs of school tablets.
With these thoughts in mind:

By Day 3

Post a potential issue you have chosen. Identify a client and a central aim related to that issue. Discuss 2-3 other main goal variables that might be addressed based on your central aim. Discuss other background information you think would be helpful in determining your goals. Include a discussion of how you might frame the question(s) needed by the organization, which will then drive the data requirements.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.

Read a selection of your colleagues'' posts.