The combined effects of data overload, source variability, and the effects of a wide variety of cognitive biases add enormous complexity to the already-complex task of intelligence analysis. Given the criticality of the analysis task, it is imperative that effective tools be developed for mitigating the effects of ever-increasing data loads coming from existing and emerging collection systems. The objective of this effort is to identify and define the areas of the intelligence analysis task that would benefit the most from analyst-aiding technologies, and to begin the process of developing effective displays and analysis tools specifically designed to overcome these complicating factors. Our approach for this effort is the SA-Oriented Design process, a user-centered approach that provides a means to improve human decision-making and performance through optimizing situation awareness (SA). The process derives from a detailed analysis of the goals, decisions, and SA requirements of the analyst. Phase 1 work focuses on identifying critical intelligence analysis information needs, creating prototype decision aids and identifying appropriate metrics of effectiveness (MOEs) for evaluating the proposed solutions.
Benefit: By creating decision aids to support the processing of large amounts of data, our SOLARIS designs reduce information overload, which is and will continue to be a concern as our societys reliance on technology continues to grow. Developing information systems that focus on information when it is needed, how it is needed in a usable form not only makes sense, but also provides the needed user support for SA formation and SA sharing. While the problem of information overload, due to amount, variability and number of data sources is pervasive for intelligence analysts, the complexity of their operations has parallels in other domains, both military and non-military. This product is applicable to any domain in which individuals must analyze, synthesize, and convey large amounts of data to perform cognitively demanding tasks while maintaining high levels of individual and team SA, including, for example, reconnaissance pilots, air traffic controllers, security analysis, and Homeland Security experts. With these teams, the quality of their SA is critical for successful performance outcomes. Decision-makers in these domains may perform different tasks, but the critical need for timely, relevant, accurate, and trusted information to achieve and maintain SA remains the same. The SOLARIS decision aids can be easily adapted to suit this wide variety of domains and end users.
Keywords: Intelligence Analyst, Situation Awareness, Data Fusion, Decision Aids, Cognitive Biases, Cognitive Performance.
