Performance support system (PSS) products are tools that supplement the performance limitations of a performer or system. These products can manifest in many forms ranging from simple paper based quick references to portable data assistant (PDA) applications and fully web deliverable immersive synthetic environments. In many forms, these applications are widely used in government and industry, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Federal Aviation Administration, and U.S. Marine Corps. This presentation includes practical examples of replicable tools and methods proponents can use to foster cost-effective PSS development and implementation within any organization. Drawing on case study examples and practical applications that blend simulation, training and exercises with PSS to significantly improve field performance, various models and perspectives are explored. Specific elements include:
Presentation of a take-away performance support model participants can use to identify when PSS is
appropriate and, if so, what sort of PSS solution will best fit their needs. Model elements include price/cost, solution sets, training Vs. PSS, project complexity/scalability, media, deployment strategies relative to infrastructure and cultural readiness. Definition supported by examples to highlight the differences between performance support, training,
and simple job aids and examples of methods for moving desktop support to other delivery methods when the performer doesn't work at a desktop or in an office environment. Methods and perspectives that can be applied to blend training and performance support into powerful
and complementary learning/job support tools, including designing solution complexity based on user/performer expertise and creating performer and job appropriate PSS interfaces, metaphors, and language. Demonstration of highly engaging and effective non-vendor specific PSS examples that range from
PDA based solutions to server delivered desktop immersive environments.