A systems approach to design: developing a usable automation tool for air traffic control

The authors describe the successful application of a systems approach, using iterative feedback from the target users, to develop a set of automation functions for terminal area air traffic control. The automation system, referred to as the Center/TRACON (terminal radar approach control facility) Automation System (CTAS), was developed through input from both the air traffic control community and the airline industry. Both air traffic controllers and airline pilots were periodically utilized in simulations to direct the development of both the user interface and solutions to the relevant technical issues. As development proceeded in conjunction with ongoing simulations, the technical development was redirected in some cases to phase. The approach taken in the development of CTAS is discussed, along with examples of the system evolution as a result of the development process