The use of Modern Search Theory, Search Theory or Mathematical Search Theory are all dependent upon the formula POA X POD = POS. The Probability of Area times the Probability of Detection equals the Probability of Success are all terms that seasoned Search Planners utilize for tracking progress. Traditionally use of the Mattson or O’Connor Consensus develop the initial Probability of Area (POA) which shifts each time a segment is searched and is represented by a percentage with 100% being success.

Probability of Detection or POD is reported at the completion of a team assignment in which a segment or any piece of real estate considered part of the search area (local or in another part of the world known as ROW for the Rest of the World) has been searched.

POD or “coverage” depends upon a variety of factors in which a list of 10 important factors are presented to rate. Each factor is rated on a scale of 1 to 10 with the number 10 being the absolute best condition at the time the real estate was being searched.

This method can be used for line type searching, in which by adding the 10 ratings assigned each factor the sum proves to be an outstanding guide for delivering a consistent well thought out POD in which the same factors are examined in determining reportable POD.

 Searchers from the field and managers have expressed how the distances between searchers is not the only factor that POD should be based upon. Concerns of ignoring other factors are addressed through the POD Factoring method, now used in several states.

We have developed a simulator to demonstrate how tall grass vs short grass can have a critical effect on POD. This simulator can be downloaded below (about 2MB). Once extracted you may move through the grass or above by using your mouse and the keyboard arrows. A pulsating light is installed so that the user may see how vegetation denies visibility in SAR and other outdoor activities.