Researcher
Research institution
Champion
Focus team
Topic
Project status
Year ended
2015
Project ID
201206
Why should I care about this project?

What info does the console operator need for accurate situational awareness? Find out using the COSA Graphics Guide, produced by this working subgroup.

Abstract

An internally conducted project to develop criteria for effective overview or Level 1 displays to provide the console operator situation awareness. Existing overview graphics from member companies were assessed to identify those attributes that help to maintain situation awareness. A set of criteria were developed along with examples. This project led into the data-to-information handbook, as the need for guidance on Level 2 displays was readily apparent.

Objective

The objective of the Overview Display is to Enable the operator to determine the health of the units under their span of control, and if a problem exists, directs them to displays from which they can troubleshoot and correct the problem. The Overview Display presents the correct data, well formatted to answer the operator questions: Is my process ok? and, “Is it running at the desired target?” As the questions are qualitative in nature, the information should generally be presented in a qualitative manner.

Driving questions

Is my process ok?
Is it running at the desired target?

Background

Plant overview displays are important for supporting the operator’s Attention Management and Situation Awareness. The Overview Display provides Knowledge-driven monitoring. The project will address the following questions: “How can Overview Displays be designed to be most effective?”, “What do the displays need to do?”, “How well do they meet these needs?”, “What can the science of supervision bring to the table?”

Deliverables

Define method for reviewing and critiquing displays
Develop first draft of chapter for overview displays for handbook
Collect metrics on new Overview Display - Due to resource limitations, this deliverable was delayed by the project team as of 9/14/2014.