GALO: A Tool for Command Space Layout Optimization Using a Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

This paper describes a software program that was developed to assist the layout design of collaborative workplaces such as a military command centre. The program assesses layout quality based on its support to operator collaboration and searches for optimal solutions using a genetic algorithm. A simulation experiment was conducted to examine the program’s effectiveness. The study involved the allocation of a 10-person team to a command centre that was pre-configured with a mission control style layout. Across 50 simulation runs, a total of 38 unique optimal layouts were identified. These solutions shared an equivalent quality as measured by the objective metric used by the algorithm. Analytical assessment confirmed their optimality for this design problem. The software program provides a useful tool for human factors practitioners to examine layout options of complex workplaces based on an algorithmic approach.

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