This study examines the impact of operational variables on diagnosis and decision-making processes, focusing on information search, in high-technology cockpits. A total of 93 regional carrier pilots responded to 6 scenarios by accessing information to determine a diagnosis and decision. Results showed that time pressure, a common operational variable, had a strong negative effect on information search and diagnosis accuracy, and the presence of noncongruent information heightened these negative effects. Unexpectedly, source of initial information (automated or other) did not impact any of the dependent variables. Diagnosis confidence was unrelated to accuracy and was negatively related to amount of information accessed. These findings confirm both the need for coherence in diagnostic processes and the difficulty of maintaining it under time pressure. It is suggested that pilots in high-technology cockpits should be trained to use coherent diagnostic processes as standard operating procedure, and that automated systems must be designed to foster coherent diagnostic processes.
Abstract