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Using Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) to Seed Design Concepts for Intelligence Analysts Under Data Overload

This paper describes how a Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) was used to jumpstart the exploration of useful design aids to combat data overload in intelligence analysis. During a simulated analysis task, we observed how professional intelligence analysts were vulnerable to making inaccurate statements when they were under time pressure and working in a topic area outside their area of expertise. From these observations, we generated design recommendations and criteria for evaluating the usefulness of any effort aimed at reducing data overload. Then, we used CTA insights to trigger the development of modular design concepts, or “design seeds,” that leverage advances in machine processing to address vulnerabilities. Nine design seeds were integrated into a “Visual Narratives” workspace visualization concept. Feedback about the usefulness of the design seeds was obtained during an elicitation session following an animated fly-through, or “Ani-mock,” demonstration.