Problem Conceptualization & Resolution of Network Problems in Tactical Environment

The current generation of network management systems (NMS) is designed by and for highly trained network engineers and computer scientists, but significant gaps exist in the usefulness of these tools for the Signal Engineers and Warrant Officers responsible for managing the warfighter Tactical Network. To address this gap, Drakontas proposes to develop a comprehensive specification for a new approach to network management: a Human-Centered Network Visualizer. The goal of the Human-Centered Network Visualizer is to do for network management what “situation awareness” tools have done for command and control (C2). The Human-Centered Network Visualizer will improve network situation awareness across all echelons of command, particularly for those warfighters whose knowledge of network technology may be limited, but who need information about spectrum, network elements, security and access control. Drakontas proposes to design a single, integrated methodology for display and manipulation of network elements, traffic, security, and mission information by typical network operators. The research team consists of specialists in human factors analysis, software development, and network management; the approach also incorporates ongoing research partnerships with Drexel University and other federal agencies as described in the proposal.