Tabular Task Analysis

Acronym

TTA

Description

A tabular task analysis (TTA) is conducted to evaluate a task or scenario with regard to the necessary task steps and the interface used. The analysis evaluates specific elements of the bottom-level task steps within a hierarchical task analysis (HTA), looking for information such as displays and controls used, possible errors, or feedback.

Uses

To analysze a task in terms of the necessary steps and interface used.

How do I use this tool?

1. DEFINE THE TASK(S) UNDER ANALYSIS. Create a task list that contains the task, system, environment, and individuals involved.

2. COLLECT SPECIFIC DATA REGARDING THE TASK(S) UNDER ANALYSIS.

3. CONDUCT A HIERARCHICAL TASK ANALYSIS (HTA) for the task being analyzed. The data collected from the previous step can serve as input into the HTA.

4. CONVERT HTA INTO TABULAR FORMAT. Put each bottom-level task step into a column down the left side of the table.

5. CHOOSE TASK ANALYSIS CATEGORIES and enter them into the TTA.

6. COMPLETE TTA TABLE.

Expertise Required

This tool is easy to use and requires little or no training.

Recommended Supplies/Materials

Spreadsheet software

Advantages

Is flexible and easy.

Is generic across nearly any domain.

Offers comprehensive analysis.

Disadvantages

Is time consuming.

No data are available on reliability or validity in the literature.

Where can I go to learn more?

Stanton N, Salmon P, Walker G, et al. Task analysis methods. Human factors methods: a practical guide for engineering and design. Great Britain: Ashgate; 2005. p. 45-76.