SECANT: Simulation for Evaluation of C2 Arrayed Networks and Teams

We propose to develop a discrete event simulation tool for evaluation and analysis of the components of a real-time, distributed computing/communications environment. This environment consists of communications equipment and the human decision makers whose tasks are facilitated by this equipment. The tool will have a graphical user interface which will allow the user to specify  Communications network configuration and reliability  Decision maker team size, capabilities and workload constraints  Battlefield scenario  Impact of the human decision process (e.g. delayed or incorrect decisions) on mission performance  Task decomposition linking battlefield scenario to specific tasks in the communications the network This user interface will facilitate the rapid, automatic generation of underlying simulation models linking battlefield scenarios, network structure, and team members. This tool will leverage Aptima's extensive success in simulating the interaction between humans, mission, and technology. The simulation will evaluate trade-offs between network configuration and performance, and will identify bottlenecks with in specific network configurations. In addition, Aptima's unique capabilities in organizational optimization will allow the user to determine the most robust, low-cost configuration of equipment and decision makers required to meet performance criteria.