A framework for design of an integrated system for decision support and training

This paper introduces a cognitive engineering approach for requirements definition and design of an integrated system for decision support and training for critical situations. Effective decision support and training should be provided not only for predefined, routine work situations, but also for a range of situations, including emergencies and other unanticipated events where decision support can be most valuable. This applies in particular to the case of decision-making in dynamic, complex environments. The design of decision support systems (DSS) should take into account the cognitive demands of decision makers to support them in their work. A DSS that can support a decision maker in critical situations can also be used for training of expertise to handle these critical situations; hence, there can be a large advantage to combining a DSS and training system into one application. A methodological approach for the design of an integrated system for decision support and training was developed using methods from Cognitive Systems Engineering and incorporating the Naturalistic Decision Making approach. A special case of novel or emerging work domains was considered.