ATP 2-33.4, page 64

Chapter 5 5-10 ATP 2-33.4 18 August 2014 5-35. An association matrix is constructed in the form of a right triangle having the same number of rows and columns. Figure 5-3 is an example of an association matrix. Figure 5-3. Example association matrix The Method 5-36. Creating an association matrix involves four steps:  Step 1. Construct a triangular matrix with multiple columns and rows in a table. This may be done using software analysis tools, a spreadsheet, or by hand.  Step 2. Extract entities and the information about their relationships from imagery, SIGINT intercepts, message traffic, or whatever other source is available to the analyst. The analyst should not limit information sources, so long as they provide valid and pertinent information.  Step 3. Place names of individuals and organizations along the angled side of the triangle; one individual or organization corresponds to a single row and a single column. Personalities must be listed in exactly the same order in the association matrix and the activities matrix to ensure that all possible associations are correct.  Step 4. Analyze the entities and associations in the matrix. Place a solid circle in boxes where entities in columns and rows meet that have an association. Circles are colored in solidly for known associations and left un-colored for suspected associations. Note. Analysts may add additional symbols and/or colors to an association matrix to clarify relationships between entities. For example, the analyst could use half-colored circles to denote a greater probability of association (using subjective probability; see chapter 3); or the analyst could color association circles green to denote the association involves money.