Experimental Design Interrogation of Network Simulation Models of U.S. Army Command and Control Centers

Abstract

Using a task network computer simulation previously developed by the U.S. Army to investigate workload conditions in a command and control center, this project developed new methodologies to use computer simulations to predict conditions for optimal human performance. By using an experimental design to interrogate the model to see what the decision makers in the work team deemed to be important, predictions were made about how the work domain could be optimized for the most efficient human performance. An augmented fractional-factorial design was developed that allowed an analysis of the main effect for each independent variable along with predictions of higher order components that might exist in each main effect. A major study finding was the extent to which battalion commanders focused their attention on establishing and maintaining situational awareness during combat operations and the need to present information to the commander in a way that supported rather than detracted from situation understanding.