Phases
Some functions or duty areas can be separated into phases. Phases have these characteristics:
•They occupy exclusive time slices of a function (or duty area)
•They are inter-dependent: the outcome of most phases is input to the next
•Each phase has a clear beginning and end
•Each contains more than one major task
Not all functions or duty areas contain phases. In some functions there is little or no sequence involved. This means there are no phases. Simply ignore the level and proceed to the next: tasks. Do not try to produce phases that do not exist.
On the other hand, some functions reflect a sequential operation or work process. If this is the case, look for phases. The identification of phases will make it easier for you to find and organize the tasks.
Position of Phases in the Job Analysis Hierarchy
Exceptions to Sequential Phases
The outcome of most phases is input to the next, but there are exceptions to the sequential nature of phases. For instance:
Operate the DCS
Phase 1: Start up
Phase 2: Monitor normal operations
Phase 3: Monitor abnormal operations
Phase 4: Shut down
This function (operate the DCS) contains a sequence: start up, monitor, shutdown. But theoretically tasks related to abnormal operations could be involved anywhere in the process, not necessarily at the third phase. For purposes of the job analysis, the exception does not matter. The point is, there is generally a sequence in this particular function: it is reasonably represented with four phases, making the tasks a bit easier to place. that's really all that matters at this point.
Example Functions/Duty Areas
Below are some typical functions/duty areas with example phases:
Routine passenger flight
1.Preflight planning
2.Take off
3.Routine flight
4.Landing
Conduct a reconnaissance mission
1.Plan mission
2.Conduct
3.Report
Troubleshoot
1.Diagnose
2.Replace fault
3.Run system test
Conduct a supplier audit
1.Audit planning
2.Audit
3.Follow up
Collect VLBI data for spacecraft tracking
1.Configure the lab for VLBI data
2.Collect telemetry data
3.Secure VLBI configuration
4.Process data
