The Human Side of Automation: Lessons for Air Defense Command and Control

Abstract

One of the defining properties of the next generation of air defense command and control (C2) systems is an increasing reliance on automation. This paper provides an overview of human performance and training issues in automated air defense C2 systems. Its primary focus is the impact of automation on air defense C2 operators and the consequences of their role change from traditional operator to supervisors of automated processes. Topics that are discussed include (a) the changing role of operators under automation, (b) human performance and automation, (c) the operator's role as a supervisory controller, (d) problems with undisciplined automation, (e) developing effective automated systems, and (f) the impact of automation on training and staff development. The paper is intended as a primer on automation and human performance for commanders, concept developers, system designers, trainers, and other personnel involved with decision-making for the next generation of automated C2 systems.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2005
Accession Number
ADA431964

Entities

People

  • Anna L. Mares
  • Cheryl A. Giammanco
  • John K. Hawkley

Organizations

  • United States Army Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Counter WMD
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Defense
  • Air Force
  • Applied Psychology
  • Automation
  • Cognitive Systems Engineering
  • Cognitive Workload
  • Command And Control
  • Complex Systems
  • Computers
  • Control Systems
  • Human Factors Engineering
  • Information Systems
  • Motor Skills
  • Psychology
  • Situational Awareness
  • Spreadsheet Software
  • Training

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Team-Based Human-Centered Cognitive Task Decision Making and Information Performance.

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control