Failure mode workload theory and planning

The author emphasizes the importance of investigating the possibility of redefining system allocation decisions based on the new ground rules associated with operation under failure mode. One possible solution would be to define an emergency mode of automation authority. The author describes the efforts under way within the US Air Force and the FAA to address this aspect of crew workload and automation design. By studying workload based on failure mode operation one may be able to develop designs and procedures which can help eliminate some of the most catastrophic operator-involved failures