Ep. 10: The Power of Serious Games in Defence and Security

Tension

In this episode, host Donna Dupont interviews Dr. Ben Taylor, a Senior Operations Research Analyst at Defence Research and Development Canada, about the use of serious games in the defence and security context. Dr. Taylor shares his unique journey, from a childhood fascination with war games to transitioning into a career supporting the development of defence force planning. He provides insights into the definition of serious games, highlighting their key differences from recreational games and their ability to generate valuable insights, while also acknowledging their limitations. A central focus of the discussion is Dr. Taylor's approach to designing and facilitating serious games. He emphasizes the importance of simplicity, relevant expertise among participants, and creating an immersive environment that allows players to focus on the problem at hand. The episode also explores the educational and crisis management applications of serious games, showcasing their versatility in tackling complex, real-world challenges.

About This Episode's Guest:

Dr Ben Taylor grew up in Colchester in the UK. He is an experienced defence operations research analyst and a Fellow of the Operations Research Society. He has a B.Sc in Combined Sciences and a Ph.D. in Chemistry.

After leaving Leicester university in 1989 he joined Westland System Assessment Ltd of Yeovil in England, working mostly on software projects and studies into the tactical employment of helicopters. In 1996 he joined the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) at the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency, where he managed the development of a successful land campaign simulation model and led a major land force balance of investment study.

In 2000-2001 Dr Taylor worked in the MOD central staff in London and was instrumental in the design and implementation of the MOD Capability Audit process. From 2002 he worked at Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. During this period Dr Taylor started to work with scientists in allied countries working on similar defence planning problems. He has led both NATO and five-eyes study teams.

In 2007 Dr Taylor moved to Canada to work for Defence Research & Development Canada, where he has supported the development of Canadian defence force planning analyses. Dr Taylor led the analysis team for the strategic program review of the Department of National Defence in 2010-11. From 2018 he has worked on a number of pandemic-related games, including supporting the Public Health Agency of Canada’s preparations for the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

Links:

Vaccine rollout TTX

Matrix Game Construction Kit

Matrix Games Handbook

Pangea 2030 Paper

Dr. Ben Taylor’s LinkedIn

Serious Play Conference

PAXsims (and Connections North)

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Show Notes

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Previous AOD Content

• Tension Ep. 9: Breakthrough Shadows of Byzantium - A Turn-Based Mystery Investigation Wargame
• Tension Ep. 8: Project Inner Alliance - Designing a Social Impact Game
• Tension Ep. 7: The Bold and Messy Roller-coaster Ride of Design Education for Military Officers

Credits
Host: Donna Dupont
Editor: Mikhial Gurarie
Graphic Designer: Habiba Elgendy
Producer: Thomas Changarathil