Development of cognitive analysis methods to aid interface design

The goal of any human factors implementation is to optimize the interface between technological systems and the humans operating within them. As technological systems continue to grow in capability and complexity, knowledge of how performers operate within these systems has become more deeply embedded within the system and in the head of the operator. In high-technology, high-complexity systems used in military, nuclear power, air traffic control, and aerospace operations, demands imposed by the system interface are predominantly cognitive in nature. Techniques for uncovering the cognitive demands associated with operating these complex systems have become increasingly necessary for understanding, predicting, and optimizing human performance within them. This paper illustrates how the application of Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) and Decision-Centered Design techniques can be used to uncover and aid the cognitive processes involved with operating complex systems, and in turn, enhance human performance in complex systems. The design of a prototype display for Landing Signal Officers aboard U.S. aircraft carriers will illustrate the application of these methods. The utility of these principles, however, can be applied to any domain or environment in which humans must interface with complex technology.