The Evolving Role of the NWS Operations Proving Groundin the Research-to-Operations Process

Kim Runk, DirectorKim Runk, Director

In the Beginning…

Empowered WorkforceSuperior IDSSImproved R2XStronger AlliancesGreater Value to U.S.

OPG identified as one of ten“key transformational concepts”

OPG Purpose & Role in R2O

3

Complement Testbeds Conduct “Last Mile” Evals Realistic Operational Setting Readiness, Impact, Training Involve Forecasters & Partners Prototype Future Systems

Initial Charge

Prototype IDSS Simulation Training

Construct Realistic WFO Test Environment

Explore Interim Transition Opportunities

Support Social Science Collaborations

Build R2O Cohort

~ first two years ~

DSS Deployment Boot Camp

Other Early Projects

HazardSimplification

3.53

HazardSimplification

EMFocusGroups

EMFocusGroups

GOES-RFLS

Product

GOES-RFLS

Product

AWIPS Tracking Meteogram

Singular Focus ORESystem Test DriveDRT Ingest/PlaybackSeveral On-Site Mods

Collaboration with NASA SPoRT-NWS MDL

Baselined in AWIPS Build 15.1

Key Lesson:Inadequate & InefficientProposal Process

Revised Governance

Basic Research Applied Development Operational Deployment

Technical Readiness Levels

Simplified Proposal Requirements

Process Accommodates Multiple Pathways

Candidates Demonstrate TRL 8/9 for ORE

Projects Approved via AOP Process

1-minute Satellite Imagery Impact Evaluation

Operational Impact Evaluation GoalsAssess the Usefulness of High Temporal ResolutionSatellite Imagery/Products in NWS WFO Operations

• Ability to Assimilate Data for Decision Making• Variety of Analysis, Forecasting, Warning Tasks• For What Tasks is 1-Min Imagery Most Valuable?• Training Needed to Prepare Forecasters for Day 1• Identify Potential Workload, Work Flow Issues

2138 UTC 10 May 2014

Aha! Moments (Anticipate vs. React)

2147 UTC 10 May 2014

Aha! Moments (Anticipate vs. React)

2159 UTC 10 May 2014

Aha! Moments (Anticipate vs. React)

2230 UTC 10 May 2014 – Kansas City Area

Aha! Moments (Imagery Fusion)

Plans for FY16

GOES-R Era RGB Applications & VisualizationsCSTAR-VLab-Testbed-OPG Validation

Digital Aviation ServicesVirtualized AWIPS

Development Workwith Candidates

for FY17-18

Things to Remember

Field Office Evaluation Center

Focus on TRL 8/9 Validation

Readiness, Value, Impact, Training

Forecaster & Partner Engagement

Multiple Pathways

Manage via AOP