Display,Control,and Software Evaluation Requirements for Emerging Tactical Army Computer Systems *

The soldier-computer interface (SCI) has become increasingly the principal focus of the man-machine interaction. As such, it represents a critical element to be assessed during human factors engineering test and evaluation. Inadequate design of displays and input/output devices such as keyboards can degrade system performance below levels necessary for functional effectiveness. Delays and errors that occur at the operator's console are translated directly into reduced system effectiveness. Adequate human factors test and evaluation requires the development and application of a sound methodology and criteria for testing and evaluating the effectiveness of display and input-output devices of the soldier-computer interface. This paper reviews the development of the methodology and criteria used to assess the SCI by the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (TECOM).