Human Factors as a scientific discipline is concerned with applying specialised information and data about human characteristics, capabilities and limitations to the design of the tools, equipment and systems that humans use, the tasks and jobs that they perform, and the environments in which they work. Human Factors matters because it helps to ensure that all of these things are as safe, comfortable and effective to use as possible.
Human Factors is important to virtually every human artefact, from simple consumer gadgets and products used by the general population to advanced technological systems used by specially trained operators. But where Human Factors really matters is in the design of complex, highly computerised, safety critical systems such as found in nuclear power station control rooms, defence command & control centres, aircraft cockpits and flightdecks and Air Traffic Management systems. If Human Factors is not properly considered there is the risk of not only poor system effectiveness, but serious accidents with tragic and possibly catastrophic consequences. In the design of complex human-machine systems, Human Factors is not just desirable, but essential. |
