Distributed supervisory coordination with multiple operators and remote systems

This paper develops the concept of distributed supervisory coordination, which describes issues of coordination of groups of distributed experts and automated systems to support skilled task performance. The paper examines distinctions between supervisory coordination and other concepts of human-machine or human-human interactions. Although this paper emphasizes human-human interactions, the general issues addressed in this paper can also be applied to interactions with highly autonomous, free-ranging robots or agents. An example of this perspective of NASA Mission Control Center simulated flight operations. Specific issues covered include the impact of system events at multiple time scales; dimensions and distributions of expertise; and needs for effective and appropriate information flow among members of task performing teams.