Abstract
Three preliminary configurations for the Integrated Command Environment (ICE) of a future USN platform were evaluated in a proof-of-concept study, using the LOCATE layout analysis tool developed in Canada. LOCATE, which develops a cost function reflecting the quality of all human-human and human-machine communications within a workspace, showed little difference between the efficacy of the preliminary designs selected for comparison. It was concluded that this was due in part to the limitations of the study, which included the assumption of a similar size for each layout and the adoption of a common size for each workstation. Based on these results, the USN offered an opportunity to conduct a LOCATE analysis using more appropriate assumptions. A standard crew was assumed, and subject matter experts agreed on the communications patterns for the analysis. Eight layouts were evaluated with the concepts of coordination and command factored into the analysis. Clear differences between the layouts emerged, with the most promising design being further refined by the US.
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