Design-Induced Error in Flight Planning

Abstract

There are many problem-solving tasks that are too complex to fully automate given the current state of technology. Nevertheless, significant improvements in overall system performance could result from the introduction of well-designed computer aids. A major concern in the introduction of such tools to support problem-solving, though, is the potential to introduce new errors due to the interaction of the person with these computer support tools.

We have been studying the development of cognitive tools for one such problem-solving task, enroute flight path planning for commercial airlines. Our goal has been two-fold. First, we have been developing specific system designs to help with this important practical problem. Second, we have been using this context to explore general design concepts to guide in the development of cooperative problem-solving systems. These design concepts are described below, along with a discussion of two empirical studies.