What a smart layer: From information overload to well-informed decisions in the TOC
The operational environment in a Tactical Operation Centre (TOC) can at times be extremely stressful, challenging and demanding. That's why you need to simplify the perceived situation so that commanders can make well-informed decisions. Read on here to learn one way on doing exactly that.
12 January 2017
Simplify the situational picture
In a TOC, multiple operations, manoeuvres and incidents are often taking place at the same time. This can result in information overload that puts severe stress on the cognitive capabilities of the TOC staff – which, ultimately, poses a risk to operational success.
To reduce information overload, you need to simplify the reality; and this is exactly what Systematic’s SitaWare Headquarters C4I system does with help of ‘Smart Layers’. Smart Layers simplify the situational picture by either filtering out or highlighting relevant tracks in order to ensure full attention is paid to the most pressing and urgent matters at hand.
How smart is a "smart layer" really?
Smart Layers are dynamically updated layers in SitaWare Headquarters based on a number of rules and criteria. The rules and criteria for a Smart Layer can be comprised of any combination of track properties, geographical areas, or track ages.
Let the system notify you of interesting events
The TOC staff can identify and outline the area of interest that requires special attention and monitoring. For instance, this area could be a ‘No Sail Area’ surrounding a military installation, vessel, or incident. Every time a vessel – identified through e.g. radar, Automatic Identification System (AIS), or visual reporting – enters such an area of interest, the system automatically notifies the staff.
Sound the alarm
Both visual and audio alerts can be triggered by Smart Layers to notify if a track enters, exits, or changes position in a particular area of interest. This will help focus on tracks and incidents which require special attention and possible actions.
Tracks can be highlighted in accordance with the rules and criteria in a Smart Layer by placing a coloured circle behind the track symbols. This makes important tracks stand out in the Situational Awareness picture.
Stay focused on the right tracks
With the help of Smart Layers in SitaWare Headquarters, military operators can identify and focus on the relevant tracks, which can ensure the appropriate attention from staff, commanders, and decision-makers in the often chaotic and stressful operational environment of a Tactical Operation Centre.
Let SitaWare help you make informed decisions and increase operational success.
Read more on the SitaWare Headquarters web page or download the SitaWare Headquarters Data Sheet.
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