ActionBuilder: Automated Scenario/Script Builder for Simulation-Based Training Systems

To speed up simulation-based exercise development, it is important for scenarios to be authored and executed on-the-fly in an automated fashion with minimal reliance on software personnel. To this end, what is needed is an intelligent scenario/script building capability that enables training personnel to rapidly assemble and test-drive incident scenarios, and that can be smoothly integrated with simulation-based training systems and exercises (SBT/SBE). This capability is envisioned as an executive agent, that would ultimately become a critical component of SBT/SBE systems. The automated scenario/script builder is envisioned as a graphical, standards-compliant software application that employs non-proprietary implementation with open interfaces for ease of integration and with facilities for workflow monitoring during simulated execution. In Phase I, we developed a prototype of this system to provide convincing technical evidence of graphical workflow design and execution. Phase II will produce a working prototype of the scenario/script building framework, a test and integration plan, and initial estimates of operation and maintenance. The scenario/script builder will be designed to be interoperable with third-party SBT/SBE systems for emergency preparedness and response training exercises. Potential military and commercial applications include incident management and response, emergency preparedness, and crisis action planning and execution.