A Simulation-Based Task Analysis using Agent-Based, Discrete Event and System Dynamics simulation

representations. This process highlights the parts or sequences of tasks that require excessive movement between locations and assists in taking appropriate actions to optimize the task. However, there are disadvantages that cannot be ignored. The pictorial representation of the task sequences can become complex, as it depends on task size, task dependencies, and type of layout. It is also difficult to show the available time of associated tasks and actions, as well as the sequences of tasks, in the same diagram. Thus, SOSD need to be used in conjunction with other task analysis techniques, such as TA or decomposition methods, before making any inferences about changes that a task may demand [2]. Timeline Analysis. Timeline Analysis is an analytical technique that determines the functional and temporal requirements for any given task combination [2]. Functional requirements refer to the steps and actions that the human operator needs to perform to complete a task, while temporal requirements refer to the time required to complete the task. TA is a simple, pen and paper technique that maps tasks along time, taking into consideration frequency and duration of tasks, as well as interactions with other tasks and human operators. TA includes clear allocation of all operations in the task performed in a fixed order, measurable amount of required time, and representation of information in graphical form.