TSA, Efficient Detection of Threat Objects
Carnegie Mellon University, Spring 2022
Problem Statement
Identify a more efficient way for Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) to quickly identify obscure and threatening objects (TSA prohibited items) during baggage check.
Problem Scoping and Discovery
The team conducted 32 informational interviews which focused the problem from identifying threatening objects faster to retention of TSO officers. The team originally evaluated a screening technology solution for TSA Officers to quickly identify obscure or threatening objects in luggage, but upon further discovery, the team identified that the root cause of the screening delays problem was not the screening technology itself, but a reduction in workforce that was causing screening delays. TSO retention is low due to the lack of a continuous rewards system within promotions and salary structure. In addition, it is challenging and uncomfortable for TSOs to apply for their own promotional bonuses. The current structure greatly reduces TSOs employee satisfaction.
Outcome
The team learned that there are quite a few policy and technology approaches to this problem that TSA is already working on but one of the gaps where the team could contribute greatly was that TSOs currently do not have a distinct training path towards higher positions that optimizes their skillsets. For this reason, the team recommended a human resources solution that focuses on employee satisfaction. The team developed a personality and skills assessment tool that would help TSA place TSOs in work streams that optimizes their strengths and gives TSOs the best chance of succeeding in their work.
Results
The team has proposed integrating a personality test to help teams and one of the students is using this topic for her Master’s thesis.