The Wildeas process, Chapter 1: Initial mapping.

The Wildeas process, Chapter 1: Initial mapping.

OR

How to fix a broken process, Chapter 1: Initial mapping.

The previous chapter outlined the current familiar “Just do it” process, stages and mentality that simply tries to get something done, as fast as possible, putting aside any due process.

It is clear that the abandonment of any results oriented process is unintentional and comes from a deep wish to do something in the face of a grave challenge, but it will unquestionably lead to disappointment time and time again.

In contrast, the Wildeas process may initially seem, demanding and slower, but it is actually, cleaner, more efficient and will yield results you can base your future strategy on.

The process is fact based, demanding that any search or evaluation begin with clear definitions, objective assessments and real data. Centered on a long-term partnership, it enables all partners to play a part in every step of the process.

The adoption of the right method in the right place is critical: rather than introduce any single piece of technology into the field merely for the sake of using technology, an overall tactical strategy and process will enable each institution to properly select, test, and deploy the most appropriate systems and methods for their area of concern.

We have to begin with one clear statement: The process’s goal is not to come up with your wishful system/outcome, but rather to

Clarify and synthesize the need.
Clarify realistic options ahead that allow decision makers to make fact-based decisions.
To provide real, measurable results, or return on investment.

Above all,

Prepare yourself to accept the results. The process may conclude that there are no viable options, perhaps that only minor changes or systems are needed, or that only high-end, systems can yield results.

Any decision forward will balance the urgency, existing infrastructure, expected results and budget.

By performing our end-to-end thorough process, we can increase the likeability of a successful introduction of the right, realistic systems that will have real, effective change. Below is an outline of the general process, some steps may change between projects:

Stage 1: Initial Mapping.

Stage 2: Field level mapping

Stage 3: Evaluating points of intervention.

Stage 4: Clarify needs to create a strategy and solution search process

Stage 5: Explore possible, relevant solutions for points of intervention

Stage 6: Field assessment and selection process

Stage 7: Initial deployment

Stage 8: Asses results, learn and improve forward (Continue, cancel, change)

Stage 1: initial mapping

The first stage focuses on a broad but clear and methodical mapping of the problem/challenge we are facing.

Recognize the problem/Challenge: The threat is the actual action we want to terminate, actual moment that does the damage (Poaching/hunting/cutting/stealing/etc.). As previously described, a very common error begins by an unclear or unrefined definition of the problem at hand, and surrounding characteristics. Thus, any process must begin with a clear definition of the problem/threat/challenge.

What is the actual problem or threat outcome – Dead wildlife? Polluted water? etc.
For example, Elephant poaching for ivory, Rhino poaching for horns, Specific timber cutting, water source pollution by… etc.
Add and describe the problem in the most detailed form possible.

Originating from the threat/problem itself, we should map the direct/surface-deep causality as we understand and perceive it.

What are the direct factors that lead to the threat/problem happening.
For example, Elephant poaching for ivory begins with a local lack of employment opportunities or income, in addition to ease of access/lack of security, etc.
Map the indirect (Before/After) factors that lead to the direct factors.
For example, Elephant poaching for ivory begins externally with international demand, effected by trade or CITES regulations, etc.
Describe the factors in the most detailed form possible.

Map the broad process that leads to/from the threat itself, step-by-step, as we know it.

What are the direct steps that lead to the threat/problem happening.
Map the indirect (Before/After) factors that lead to the direct factors.
For example, poaching begins with oversea demand, which in turn drives a local dealer, in turn driving a local poacher team, and so on until actual poaching incident and then following events that include transport, sale, and export. Etc.
Describe the factors in the most detailed form possible.

Objectively map (Survey and outline) all relevant issues around the threat.

This stage must be conducted in real life, in the field, even if for many it may seem redundant. Remember, even if you mapped adjacent areas, you must objectively map each area independently and refrain from false equivalency as the characteristics of each threat and area vary greatly.
An objective external expert should perform this stage and not as just an additional internal stage that just continues known methods, known perceptions and protocols. For a full process, see the site survey page on www.wildeas.org.

The main components include:
Terrain characteristics and infrastructure.
Local climate (Wind, routine, rain, duct, daylight time, etc.)
Local Wildlife – Regular and under threat
Local Vegetation – types, areas, characteristics, time of year, etc.
Threats – Direct threats which we focus on and secondary threats.
Current available manpower – Numbers, qualifications, experience and potential.
Current available logistics – what logistical modules are available, main roads, access roads, landing strips, power, communication, vehicles, weapons, uniforms, coverage, food, water, etc.
Law enforcement – What are current law enforcement capabilities, history, behavior, cooperation with local/federal forces, legislation, actual implementation and more.
Funding – What are the current funding channels of local activity, what are governmental, donors, or institutional resources. Now, and possible new resources.
CONOPS – What is the current concept of operation with current manpower, tools and methods. How are they managed, activated and measured.
Describe the factors in the most detailed form possible.