Human-Centered Network Visualizer: Visual Abstractions of Network Operations in a Tactical Environment
Abstract
We present visualization requirements and designs for the Human-Centered Network Visualizer (NetViz) to assist the US Army Brigade Signals Officer (S6) soldiers with their daily activities. These are based on interactions with both retired and active duty S6 soldiers. To assure information dominance, it is increasingly important that the S6 and Network Operations Group are able to obtain and provide accurate situational awareness from data received over the network. This paper addresses three challenges faced by the S6: (1) mentally integrating and correlating information from disparate tools, (2) processing and interpreting that information for a commander who may have limited technical knowledge, and (3) reducing the amount of downtime resulting from any disruption through the creation of a contingency plan. The NetViz designs abstract and unify data required by an S6 into a single view. They allow for the visualization of data to support S6 reporting during an update brief. Visual designs for "what if" scenarios and future events also facilitate planning for both the expected and the unexpected. This paper describes our interactions with S6 soldiers along with the resultant visualization enhancement based upon information provided.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA559615
Entities
People
- Christopher T. Cannon
- Donald A. Pellegrino
- Giovanni Oddo
- Thomas T. Hewett
- William Clement Regli