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Voice loops as coordination aids in space shuttle mission control
E S Patterson1, J Watts-Perotti, D D Woods
1Cognitive Systems Engineering Laboratory, Institute for Ergonomics, The Ohio State University, USA.
Computer Supported Cooperative Work : CSCW : an International Journal
|September 25, 2002
Summary
Voice loops, an auditory groupware technology, enable seamless coordination for experts in high-stakes fields like space shuttle mission control. This system allows practitioners to monitor communications without interrupting workflow, enhancing cooperative efforts.
Area of Science:
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Cognitive Science
- Systems Engineering
Background:
- Voice loops are auditory groupware crucial for coordination in complex, distributed environments.
- Domains like air traffic management and space shuttle mission control rely on these tools for synchronous, multi-channel communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reasons behind the success of voice loop systems in space shuttle mission control.
- To provide insights for designing effective groupware in event-driven domains.
Main Methods:
- Direct observation of over 130 hours within the space shuttle mission control environment.
- Analysis of the voice loop system's structure and its alignment with domain-specific demands.
Main Results:
- Voice loops facilitate passive monitoring of relevant communications, minimizing disruption to individual tasks and group activities.
- The system's organizational structure inherently supports the operational demands of mission control.
Conclusions:
- The success of voice loops in mission control stems from their ability to support unobtrusive monitoring and their alignment with organizational structures.
- Understanding these factors can inform the development of new groupware tools for cooperative work in similar domains.
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