Harnessing the power of multiple tools to predict and mitigate mental overload

Abstract

Predicting the effect of system design decisions on operator performance is challenging, particularly when a system is in the early stages of development. Tools such as the Improved Performance Research Integration Tool (IMPRINT) have been used successfully to predict operator performance by identifying task/design combinations leading to potential mental overload. Another human performance modeling tool, the Multimodal Interface Design Support (MIDS) tool, allows system designers to input their system specifications into the tool to identify points of mental overload and provide multi-modal design guidelines that could help mitigate the overload identified. The complementary nature of the two tools was recognized by Army Research Laboratory (ARL) analysts. The ability of IMPRINT to stochastically identify task combinations leading to overload combined with the power of MIDS to address overload conditions with workload mitigation strategies led to ARL sponsorship of a proof of concept integration between the two tools. This paper aims to demonstrate the utility of performing low-cost prototyping to combine associated technologies to amplify the utility of both systems. The added capabilities of the integrated IMPRINT/MIDS system are presented with future development plans for the system. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.