Developing an Environment for Exploring Distributed Operations: A Wargaming Example
Abstract
Requirements for Future Force operations indicate that planning and wargaming must transition from a collocated, sequential, and staff-centered process to one that is distributed, simultaneous, and commander-centered. The present research developed a course of action analysis (wargaming) environment for exploring the human performance requirements associated with distributed wargaming activities characteristic of Future Force operations. This report describes the design, development, and initial evaluation of the multi-echelon distributed wargaming exercises and simulation tools comprising the wargaming research environment. Key design features of the research environment are identified which serve to rapidly guide command groups through the Action-Reaction- Counteraction wargaming cycle, minimizing the time required to orient participants to the tools, tasks, and background information necessary to wargaming. Four distributed wargaming exercises, including two Horizontal (Staff) and two Vertical (Command) exercises, were conducted with 20 Active Duty Officers - Majors and Captains. Results of the research provide a prototype example of an environment for distributed operations that can support Future Force research and training requirements. The results provide lessons learned for developing a distributed planning environment, including guidelines for the development of structured exercises, requirements for tools that facilitate collaboration, and measures for the assessment of wargaming performance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA435131
Entities
People
- Carl W. Lickteig
- Clair E. Conzelman
- Matthew L. Smith
- Paul G. Smith
- William R. Sanders
- William T. Holden Jr.
Organizations
- Human Resources Research Organization