AFOS Experimental Program

The experimental program to date has concentrated on the forecaster\´s work station. By presenting field forecasters with a simulated problem, we were able to identify several important features to be enhanced and several to be changed. The most important feature to be enhanced was the flexibility in creating individual work stations. Smaller units, with specialized func-tions, that could be linked together in various combi, nations, appear to be highly desirable. The forecast preparation function was indentified as the most critical for design of the work station. This function places more emphasis on alphanumeric (KCRT) and message composition devices than on graphic displays. The use of KCRT devices for forecast preparation has several advantages including cost. Beyond the technical details of the work station, we learned much about the idiosyncrasies of the forecasters. A significant number wear bifocals, for example, and the orientation of displays is particularly important. The development of one horizontal keyboard for all hardware control functions is another change to be considered. From the field forecasters we also gained insight into the training required. The mechanics of AFOS are easily learned, but adaption into forecasters\´ work routines will be more difficult. However, considering the high skill level of National Weather Service field people, "overkill" on training should be avoided. The local data base needs to be enhanced. To this end, the parallel programs leading to automating surface, radar and upper air observations are being interfaced with AFOS.