Automated Flight Service Station Voice Switch (AFSSVS)
Updated:02:58 PM March 20, 2009
Flight service controllers currently communicate with pilots and other controllers using several outdated communication systems. The AFSSVS program sought to replace these systems with a single, modern system with additional capacity and new capabilities.
Group personnel served as the human factors lead on the program. We developed an AFSSVS CHI prototype using our rapid iterative prototyping process and tools. The prototype allowed controllers and requirements personnel to evaluate ideas in an interactive, realistic manner. The process also helped us to better understand the operation and user requirements at AFSSs. This helped us provide more useful consultation to the program office.
Second, we led an evaluation, called an Early User Involvement Event (EUIE), in which controller representatives from eleven AFSS simulated operations used the prototype and provided feedback about the CHI. The results of the EUIE served as a validation of the design and ensured that the design was easy to use and acceptable to the user community. It also allowed us to develop a variety of tools and techniques that we have used in EUIEs on other programs. The final version of the prototype was provided to bidders on the AFSSVS contract to help guide their proposals.
Finally, we planned and conducted the human factors portion of the Operational Capability Test (OCT). In the OCT, offerors competing for the AFSSVS contract provided working prototype systems. Controllers from AFSSs nationwide served as OCT participants in this six-week activity. The controllers completed realistic scripts that exercised the AFSSVS functionality and identified risks and impact.
Products
- AFSSVS Early User Involvement Event (EUIE) Test Plan, 2000
- AFSSVS Early User Involvement Event (EUIE) Final Report, 2000
- AFSSVS Computer-Human Interface Prototype Description, 2000
- AFSSVS Operational Capability Test (OCT) Plan and Procedures, 2001
- AFSSVS Operational Capability Test (OCT) Human Factors Report, 2002
