Team Communication and Performance During Sustained Command and Control Operations: Preliminary Results

Abstract : This report describes the approach and initial results of an investigation of individual and team Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) communication and performance in complex time-critical targeting sustained operations (SUSOPS) scenarios. There have been few experimental studies on the effects of fatigue on complex decision making. Therefore, we have initiated a program of research that extends this effort by (a) utilization of a complex command and control simulation based on demanding and time-critical USAF operational tasks, and (b) utilization of operational USAF military personnel as research participants. We describe our initial baseline study, and preliminary findings regarding effects on communication processes. As expected in overnight sessions, the subjects significantly changed their communications that they were fatigued. Their fatigue was also potentially reflected in the subjects significantly changing two other types of communications: 1) requesting information on assets; and 2) strategy (information regarding the movement of assets or the sequencing of actions among team members). Future studies will extend this baseline investigation and assess potential countermeasures for acute and chronic fatigue effects in sustained operations.

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