Applied Comparison between Hierarchical Goal Analysis and Mission, Function and Task Analysis

This paper uses a case study approach to compare applications of Mission, Function and Task Analysis (MFTA) and Hierarchical Goal Analysis (HGA) to identify requirements for systems design in a military context. The two approaches were used to analyze three tactical positions in the Operations Room of a Halifax Class naval frigate. MFTA produced a four-level hierarchy; the bottom level of which specified tasks to be performed by the three naval operators. HGA produced a hierarchy that ranged from four to eight levels; every level specified goals, each assigned to an operator and each associated with a controlled variable. MFTA was found easier to apply, as job positions and time were used as frames of reference to identify tasks. HGA was found harder to apply, as goals were not defined by position, organizational structure, or time. MFTA successfully identified operator tasks, while HGA successfully identified both operator tasks and interactions that could benefit from technological support.