A prototype report filter to reduce information overload in combat simulations

This research resulted in a successful design and demonstration of the Simulation Information Filtering Tool (SIFT). SIFT is an information technology that can assist decision-makers in reducing their information flows when participating in combat training simulations. SIFT converts the commander's critical information requirements (CCIR) into filtering criteria. The CCIR standard filters all but critical information from a commander's message stream. Critical information is, by definition, information with the highest value. The message stream becomes smaller, yet packed with high value information. In demonstration, SIFT reduced the volume of reports by 86% and retained those that were critical. Using a cognitive model to estimate human report processing capacity, the SIFT prototype shows great potential in helping commanders avoid information overload.