The Subjective Transfer Function Approach for Analyzing Systems

Clairice T. Veit, Monti D. Callero

Expert InsightsPublished 1983

The subjective transfer function (STF) approach was developed for analyzing complex systems where many variables either directly or indirectly affect system outcomes. The idea is to test hypotheses about how "experts" perceive their system to function. Hypotheses are algebraic functions (STFs) that specify how factors comprising the system affect judged outcomes. Once the STFs are known for all groups of system experts, they can be used to evaluate how changes in system inputs affect outcomes. The authors detail the steps involved in the STF approach, discuss its measurement basis, and provide illustrations from research in tactical Air Force command and control.

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Veit, Clairice T. and Monti D. Callero, The Subjective Transfer Function Approach for Analyzing Systems. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1983. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P6893.html.
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