Information Access Challenges: Data Fission Needs of the Field Expert
Abstract
Field experts, otherwise known as super users have complex data retrieval needs that extend beyond internal systems. For example, field experts who interface with a command and control structure rely on both "decision" and "raw" data. These complex data needs are further complicated when field experts need to assemble rich data to make critical and timely decisions in situ from an affected area, in adverse conditions. Our research details instances where "raw data" is compromised to best suit the broader population of users, bypassing the critical needs of field experts. Recognizing fused decision data is usually groomed by a designated field expert, the intervention alone dilutes the purity of raw data. This ongoing research addresses the following research question: What are the information access challenges of the field expert in an operational context when tasked with critical and timely decision making requests? This paper focuses on one aspect of the aforementioned question: How do field experts adapt their environment to retrieve raw data? Using rapid ethnographic assessment we highlight one raw data contingency essential for field expert decision making. Our assessment takes a bottom-up approach demonstrating the need for timely low-level data for critical decision making that is not readily available. The contribution of this research is directed towards sustainable best practices that are agile and light-weight and can support the field expert needs for critical fused data and the need for raw data as part of accurate decision making. We propose an approach for data consolidation which benefits decision makers, especially those who need vital and accurate information at the lowest level of detail. A data fusion scheme, which provides decision makers the ability to derive knowledge sets independent of pre-fused data, is included.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA547069
Entities
People
- Elizabeth A. Gomez
- Joe Chimento
Organizations
- New Jersey Institute of Technology