An Interactive Language Query System for Retrieving Alphanumeric Data from an Army Tactical Data System

The purpose of this study is to describe a query system, based on an interactive query language IQL, as an alternative to this use of formats. The methodology encompassed four steps. First, user requirements for interactive query were stated, based on an analysis of data flow in a division tactical operations center. Second, the assumed hardware and software capabilities of a tactical data system which would use the proposed query system were stated. Third, research of the literature and of existing systems having IQLs was conducted to determine the state of the art in IQL design. Fourth, a proposed query system was described. The query system was based on an IQL and designed to meet the stated user requirements. The study recommends implementation of the proposed query system on an experimental basis for evaluation by field users. It also recommends that related studies be conducted in three areas impacting upon query system design the structure of the tactical data systems data base, the standardization of data terms and abbreviations, and the design of the tactical data systems command language, of which the query system language is a subset.