Investigation Into the Use of Faces as a Means of Presenting Cost Performance Report Data.

摘要

This thesis focused on the use of faces as a means of representing contractor generated cost performance report (CPR) data. The study investigated the feasibility of using faces, and whether the use of faces would lead to effective decision making based on the information that the faces represent. The faces concept involves the transformation of data into cartoon-like faces by pairing specific variables of the data set with distinctive facial features, such as pupil location and nose length. Feasibility of use was defined in terms of the availability of a personal computer based program that could be used to draw the faces and whether individuals would feed confident using the faces. Effective decision making is defined as the ability to make accurate decisions in a reasonable period of time. A computer program was developed to draw the faces. A test scenario was designed to evaluate a user's decision making confidence and decision making effectiveness. The test utilized the tabular data presentation mode as a basis for comparison. A statistical analysis of the data collected indicated that the use of faces resulted in lower decision making confidence and lower decision making effectiveness as compared to the use of tables. However, training and experience in the use of faces significantly increases both the confidence and effectiveness levels.