Cognitive task analysis of electric power system control center operations

Esa M. Rantanen, Jonathan A. Winkle, Thomas J. Overbye

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

A cognitive task analysis of reliability coordinators in an electric power system control center was performed in conjunction with evaluation of three novel display solutions for line overload detection and correction. Eight experienced regional operations center operators participated in the study. The operators were shown two different geographic data view displays and a tabular, text-based tool, and interviewed as they solved three different transmission line overload problems using the different displays and tools. The operators were asked to think aloud as they performed the tasks. Their comments were recorded and transcribed, and used as a basis for the cognitive task analysis. The results indicated that although the operators liked the system data visualization approaches, they also placed high value on tabular presentation of textbased and numerical data. Visualization solutions should therefore be used to supplement existing displays and tools. This study also serves as an example of a participatory design approach to development of novel visualization solutions for complex task environments.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication52nd Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, HFES 2008
Pages1934-1938
Number of pages5
StatePublished - 2008
Event52nd Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, HFES 2008 - New York, NY, United States
Duration: Sep 22 2008Sep 26 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Volume3
ISSN (Print)1071-1813

Other

Other52nd Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, HFES 2008
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityNew York, NY
Period9/22/089/26/08

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Human Factors and Ergonomics

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