ABSTRACT

DRA has been conducting research into methods of task allocation, investigating the suitability of existing methods for the Naval domain. An initial review of current task allocation methods identified seven problems with their use. A subsequent, more extensive, review of methods was carried out (Older, Waterson and Clegg, in press) and development of a new method initiated. Many methods were developed to support "dumb" automation, with the assumption that the allocation of tasks to either human or machine remains static. However, with "intelligent” knowledge-based technology there is potential for tasks to be allocated dynamically according to situational factors. This paper considers the implications of this technology for future Naval systems.