The Effect of a Shared Tactical Picture on Distributed Decision Making in a Maritime Identification and Classification Task

Abstract

Being able to accurately classify and identify unknown vessels in a timely manner is critical in the maritime Defence context. Distributed decision making is a process where multiple people who are not co-located work together on a given task. Research has investigated both the effect of information availability and cognitive load on classification tasks but is limited in the distributed decision making context. This study investigated the benefits of using a common tactical picture over multiple local tactical pictures. A mixed methods approach was used, where 14 pairs of participants completed an identification and classification and then completed a qualitative survey on their strategies. In one condition, participants had their own local tactical picture, and needed to communicate to combine information and complete the task. In the other condition, both participants had access to a common tactical picture, where all information required to complete the task was presented to both participants. Results indicated that the benefits of a common tactical picture were improved accuracy (Mdn correct = 33%, Mdn correct = 27%). NASA TLX scores showed participants felt that they had to use more effort in the local tactical picture condition (Mdn = 70, Mdn = 62.5). Qualitative themes indicated that the benefits of using a common tactical picture allowed teams to dynamically share workload. The implications of this study involve the development of team structures that facilitate expert teaming.