FIDELITY AND VALIDITY IN DISTRIBUTED INTERACTIVE SIMULATION: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Abstract : Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) involves the on-line networking of large numbers of participants operating through simulators, actual equipment, or computer models of friendly and opposing forces in free-play exercises on a simulated battlefield. DIS employs new simulation-related technologies that can be used to support innovative applications generally not feasible with the older technologies of conventional simulation. It has the potential of revolutionizing future work in (1) collective training (2) the development and evaluation of tactical concepts and doctrine, (3) system test and evaluation, and (4) weapon system concept analysis. Its potential importance is sufficiently great to suggest that special attention be given to issues regarding the desirability or necessity of relevant simulator characteristics. Two such issues are addressed in this document. Specifically, in this document, simulator fidelity and validity issues and applications-based fidelity requirements are addressed in a question-and-answer dialogue format. Secondly, four key drivers of fidelity requirements are identified: (1) the mission to be simulated, (2) the objective(s) of the simulation; (3) the fidelity dimensions, and (4) the simulation components. Thirdly, some conclusions that DIS and the associated fidelity issues are discussed. It is suggested that two parallel trends--the emergence of affordable technology and the continuing drawdowns in military resources--will interact to increase the importance of DIS as a problem-solving tool across a wide variety of potential application areas. It is suggested that the advantages and disadvantages of such DIS applications should be examined carefully and logically for they are capable of providing a powerful supplement or alternative to large-scale field exercises.