SITUATION AWARENESS REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FUTURE OBJECTIVE FORCE

This paper demonstrates how a Goal Directed Task Analysis (GDTA) can be used to provide insight into potential allocations of staff functions within the Objective Force Units of Action. The GDTA is a methodology that delineates the goals, decisions, and SA requirements essential for achieving a particular objective. In evaluating the responsibilities assigned to different components of a proposed command structure, the GDTA can provide support for three types of assessments: (1) an assessment of essential information requirements, (2) an assessment of likely cognitive workload associated with the proposed structure, and (3) an assessment of potential problems and/or benefits associated with a particular allocation of responsibilities. This type of assessment will highlight areas where soldiers’ information needs are not being adequately met, where particular staff function allocations are overly demanding on the soldiers’ cognitive resources, and where particular combinations of responsibilities within and across cells can create unexpected consequences that negatively impact the soldiers ability to successfully complete their mission.