Workload Warriors: Lessons Learned from a Decade of Mental Workload Prediction Using Human Performance Modeling

Abstract

For at least a decade, researchers at the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) have predicted mental workload using human performance modeling (HPM) tools, primarily IMPRINT. During this timeframe their projects have matured from simple models of human behavior to complex analyses of the interactions of system design and human behavior. As part of this maturation process, the researchers learned: 1) to develop a modeling question that incorporates all aspects of workload, 2) to determine when workload is most likely to affect performance, 3) to build multiple models to represent experimental conditions, 4) to connect performance predictions to an overall mission or system capability, and 5) to format results in a clear, concise format. By implementing the techniques they developed from these lessons learned, the researchers have had an impact on major Army programs with their workload predictions. Specifically, they have successfully changed design requirements for future concept Army vehicles, substantiated manpower requirements for fielded Army vehicles, and made Soldier workload the number one item during preliminary design review for a major Army future concept vehicle program. The effective techniques the ARL researchers developed for their IMPRINT projects are applicable to other HPM tools. In addition, they can be used by students and researchers who are doing human performance modeling projects and are confronted with similar problems to help them achieve project success.