Ability of Image Interpreters to Adapt Output to Varying Requirements for Completeness and Accuracy

Book excerpt: Within the broad objectives of the Surveillance Systems research program, the Man Computer Functions Task is specifically concerned with the allocation of functions and interrelationships among interpreters and computers. The present publication describes an initial study, involving two experiments, in the development of procedures through which a computer can aid in the interpretation -decision process. The experiments were conducted to study the effect of providing payoff instructions based on specific intelligence requirements on image interpreter performance in two important tasks: (1) Location and identification of targets in tactical imagery and (2) Rapid screening of tactical imagery. Three sets of instructions were used in each experiment. One set emphasized importance of completeness of interpretation; another emphasized importance of achieving a balance between accuracy and completeness; the third emphasized accuracy over completeness. Results of both experiments showed that interpreters can vary their performance as a function of the relative weight given accuracy and completeness of output. Positive results obtained in both experiments point up the need for provision of guidance to interpreters to offset highly variable and subjective evaluations given intelligence requirements. Development of payoff matrices for classes of military situations is suggested. (Author).