Computer Assisted Early Warning – the FAST Example

Abstract

FAST is a German acronym which stands for early analysis of tensions and fact-finding. It is a political early warning system that aims at enhancing political decision makers’ ability to identify critical developments in a timely manner so that political strategies can be formulated to either prevent or limit destructive effects of violent conflicts or identify windows of opportunity for peacebuilding. Thus, FAST is not merely an academic exercise but tries to impact decision making processes. FAST products are tailored to the needs of practitioners and while we strive for sound intellectual analysis, academic rigor is not an end in itself. We also refrain from using one single methodology but strongly believe in a comprehensive approach using multiple methods. While qualitative analysis is considered to be essential for maintaining a context-specific understanding of the target countries, FAST uses quantitative techniques to manage the huge flow of information and thus to reduce complexity. Figure 4.1. shows how different qualitative and quantitative methodological parts feed into FAST’s core products

Keywords

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