A “Newcomer's” Perspective on System Error Prevention in Operational Test and Evaluation

The Aeromedical/Human Factors Division at Headquarters Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center provides human factors expertise for all programs during the operational test and evaluation phase of development. This effort consists of a twofold process: 1) early identification of system errors that have the potential to adversely affect mission accomplishment; and 2) provision of recommendations for corrective action. The current methods used to identify system errors in an operational environment are primarily qualitative. Greater emphasis needs to be placed on the development of an operationally usable objective approach in the assessment of in-flight performance and workload. An objective approach would greatly enhance the current methods used in addressing system error prevention for new systems under development.