ABSTRACT
Multi-operator teams offer several advantages over single operators and an extensive body of research supports the efficacy of operator teams in complex systems (e.g., Sundstrom, De Meuse, and Futrell, 1990; Ilgen, 1999; Paris, Salas, and Cannon-Bowers, 1999, 2000; Annett and Stanton, 2000). Moreover, several accidents in complex systems demonstrate that multi-operator teams can provide greater levels of safety than could single operators. For example, in a 1989 accident, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10 experienced a catastrophic engine failure that severed all hydraulic lines, leading to the loss of hydraulic systems and with that the loss of airplane control with traditional pilot techniques (NTSB, 1990a).
