Design
Event Prototypes in Airline Transport Operations
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Author Richard CLEWLEY and Jim NIXON |
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Translating complex system analysis into a story-based film for participatory design: Dilemmas in suicide prevention
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Author Gyuchan Thomas Jun and I. Cecilia Landa-Avila |
| Abstract It has been widely recognised that whole systems approaches are required, but underexplored in the design and development of complex healthcare systems. Human factors and ergonomics (human factors) has adopted and developed various conceptual models and frameworks in order to support the application of systems approaches such as Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA), Systems Engineering Intitiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS), STAMP and FRAM to name but a few. Application of these systems approaches benefit from the involvement of all relevant stakeholders and the inclusion of their input in system design. However, evidence also suggests that involving healthcare stakeholders is challenging mainly due to their lack of time and system expertise. Undertanding outputs of system analysis, usually in the form of complex system maps, tends to require time and certain level of visual learning capacity, which some people don’t have. The full potential of a participatory systems approach has been hardly realised, so there is a need for improving the way the outputs of systems approaches are communicated. This study, therefore, aims to translate the outputs of complex system analysis into a story-based film for participatory design. |
The role of ergonomics in creating adaptive and resilient complex systems for sustainability
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Author Andrew THATCHER |
| Abstract Anthropogenic-led changes to our biosphere now threaten to disrupt human health and wellbeing and perhaps even our existence as a species. The principle aim of this paper is to demonstrate what human factors and ergonomics can learn from the study of how natural systems operate. This paper will demonstrate how a complex systems understanding is required to unpack problems, to identify solutions, and to select places in the system where interventions will have the greatest impact. |
The quantity and nature of in-vehicle cognitive demands experienced by real-world drivers
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Author Madeleine CONAGHAN, Edward ELTON, Periklis CHARCHALAKIS, and Elias STIPIDIS |
| Abstract A real-world driving study was conducted into the cognitive demands within the cabin of a modern domestic car. The quantity and nature of the interactions were recorded, along with dashboard and centre console glances. Ethnographic data was collected from a sample of 8 drivers using remote video analysis and a journey diary. The results suggest that glancing at the dashboard is the highest singularly demanding task, and the highest cognitive demands occur when several types of visuospatial sketchpad representational information are presented to the driver. Therefore, the type of information presented may be more demanding than the area it comes from. |
Evaluating Virtual Reality 360 Video to Inform Interface Design for Driverless Taxis
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Author David R. Large, Madeline Hallewell, Madelaine Coffey, Jenna Evans, Leah Briars, Catherine Harvey & Gary Burnett |
| Abstract Autonomous, self-driving taxis are a commonly cited solution for future mobility but inevitably raise myriad human-centred design and usability challenges. However, conducting usability and user experience studies in imagined, future vehicles is troublesome, given the absence of safe, road-worthy exemplars (and indeed, recent COVID-19 restrictions). Applying a novel virtual reality (VR) Wizard-of Oz methodology, fifty-two participants were presented with immersive 360° videos (VR360-videos), which captured interactions with a range of potential human-machine interface (HMI) solutions, aiming to address vehicle identification and on-boarding tasks. Interactions and experiences were acted out by members of the research team, with potential HMIs and constituent tasks informed by a participatory design study, literature review and user requirements elicitation exercise also conducted by the authors. To evaluate the methodological approach, the VR360-videos were presented using either a VR-headset or laptop web-browser, with respondents offered the opportunity to participate in the laboratory or from their home, thus affording a 2×2 between-subjects study design with fixed factors of Method and Location. An overview of the user experience results indicated that all HMIs were generally received positively, with subjective ratings unaffected by Method or Location. Qualitative data suggested potential for greater immersion/presence using a VR-headset, although there were indications of higher “simulator sickness” using this approach. The study provides a novel methodology to deliver immersive user experiences for evaluation. Results will be used to inform HMI design and future evaluations associated with remaining journey stages (in-transit, arrival, payment etc.). |
How ‘Empathetic modelling’ positively influences Architects’ empathy, informing their Inclusive Design-Thinking
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Author Kim Hutton and Martin Maguire |
| Abstract Empathy is described in the literature as being the first stage in the Design-Thinking cycle. Architects and Design professionals should ‘Empathise’ with their users to understand their needs and gain insight into the exclusion barriers that many users face within the Built Environment. This paper presents the results of a study conducted with a cohort of Architects, investigating whether an ‘Empathetic Modelling’ intervention could influence their intrapersonal state empathy levels and inform their inclusive Design-Thinking. A validated empathy scale was used to measure Architects empathy levels, pre and post intervention. Visual acuity and hand dexterity were the two capability losses simulated, with participants performing common Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and two design tasks. Results showed that all participants empathy scores increased, when comparing pre and post-test measures. This was supported with qualitative data, with results suggesting that all participants gained unique and useful insights into how they can incorporate more accessibility, adaptability and inclusivity into future designs, to reduce user exclusion within the built environment. This increased awareness of incorporating an inclusive design philosophy, has positive implications for design professionals understanding the diverse needs of the wider user population and especially for the increasing ageing population, who want to maintain their independence and enjoy barrier-free access to the built environment. |
MODSEAT – Innovative Railway Seat Design
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Author Marcelino R., Castro A., Ferreira C. & Remelgado E. |
| Abstract The Modseat project objective was to design an innovative, modular, customisable train seat using new materials and processes. This paper highlights the importance of design methodologies in developing a new seat, from concept design to building physical models to test and validate solutions. We will describe the design process and testing methodologies, presenting the results of the different design iterations. We expect to provide an overview of industry development methodologies and design as a key discipline in articulating different specialists, fostering discussion between stakeholders and creating the best possible passenger experience. The Modseat project was an EU funded project and brought together companies and R&D groups in the Portuguese railway sector to showcase the know-how and technological competence. |
Space Utilisation and Comfort in Automated Vehicles: A Shift in Interior Car Design?
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Author Christopher Wilson, Diane Gyi, Andrew Morris, Robert Bateman, Hiroyuki Tanaka |
| Abstract Autonomous vehicles will provide an opportunity for a paradigm shift in interior car design in the next decade. For over 100 years the evolutionary development of cars with a focus on driving has created vehicle architectures unfit for the opportunities afforded by autonomy. Highly autonomous cars (L4) will allow occupants to engage in non-driving related tasks (NDRTs), such as working, reading, social media and watching films, which could potentially increase the value of time spent in the vehicle. This research concerns interior space requirements, design, comfort, and wellbeing for highly autonomous vehicles using a novel simulator-based methodology. The holistic approach taken provides an insight into how occupants choose to use space in the vehicle, what activities they might do and how comfortable they might be when engaging in NDRTs. Sixteen participants (8 males, 8 females) aged between 20 and 47 (M = 31.8, SD = 8.14) took part in the study, which involved three 45-minute simulated drives to determine relative comfort and wellbeing across three different conditions. A bespoke simulator buck was designed and built, and a 270-degree simulated environment was used. Occupants were given freedom to position themselves in the vehicle within the physical restrictions of each condition (including seat rotation, recline and seat height adjustment). Condition 1 involved a current vehicle layout with a fixed passenger seat, centre console, steering wheel, and pedals; Condition 2 presented a customisable vehicle layout with a moveable centre console, steering wheel and pedals; and Condition 3 was a co-designed layout where additional features were added based on participant feedback. A questionnaire was used to assess comfort and wellbeing at two points during each trial (after 10 minutes, and after 35 minutes). Data were also captured on posture and the chosen NDRTs. The seat was reported to be comfortable and supportive in all three user trials, but when comparing between sessions, Condition 3 represented a significant improvement over Condition 1 and 2 for backrest and headrest comfort. Overall wellbeing scored highly across all three conditions and no significant difference was found between sessions for this metric. In Condition 2, some actively looked for flat surfaces to carry out their tasks (e.g., using the dashboard, or using the arm rest). This led to several personalised features for the co-designed layout, such as lap tables, fixed tables, and door ledges. There were some interesting effects of the new layouts for example, some participants experienced feelings of claustrophobia due to the addition of such features decreasing their reported wellbeing; others reported feeling less vulnerable as they were able to move themselves further towards the centre of the car. |
Design Blindspots: User testing clinical IT systems
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Author Lauren J Morgan & Paula Pryce |
| Abstract In early 2021, the MHRA launched its guidance on applying human factors and usability engineering to medical devices including drug-device combination products in Great Britain (MHRA, 2021). In its guidance it states: A usability engineering process can, and should, be applied by device manufacturers in the identification, assessment and mitigation of potential patient and user safety risks; also in the analysis of incidents that have occurred, in order to identify learning and put into place corrective actions to improve device design However, experience in hospital healthcare is that many devices and IT systems are often poorly designed and continue to contribute to patient safety risks. A seminar Harvard Business Review paper stated: “to fix physician burnout, we must first fix the electronic patient record”. In everyday work in our hospitals we see examples where poor device and IT design is making clinicians lives harder, and decreasing patient safety as a consequence. We have a workforce cataclysm, of which the state of hospital devices and IT is possibly contributing to rather than helping to fix. We explore a simplified multi-method approach to user testing to identify patient safety and usability risks. We present evaluations of 3 clinical IT systems, showing how user testing conducted correctly easily identifies these safety risks. The MHRA guidance as currently stands is not being used fully by suppliers, we need to consider how to strengthen its impact. |
Human Factors Engineering at the early phases of a project
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Author Andrew BRAZIER |
| Abstract While Human Factors Engineering (HFE) is starting to be adopted for projects in the oil and gas industry, there is a tendency to leave it until relatively late. This means that opportunities to influence and improve the design are being missed. The reasons for this include a lack of understanding of what HFE can contribute amongst project personnel; and a similar lack of project understanding by the people responsible for integrating human factors. This paper will make the case of doing more HFE earlier in projects, which will improve the way human factors are addressed and result in better design. |
Footwear innovations for people with the diabetic foot with ergonomic design
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Author Hanieh Abdi, Soheila Esmaeili |
| Abstract Background: The foot is one of the organs of the body that have a major role in health, especially in diabetics. During the day, a lot of pressure is transmitted through the legs to the knee, pelvis, and spine, and any motivation in the shoe may put pressure on the gait parameters. Shoes should be such that diabetics can feel comfortable enough and also not suffer from neuropathy or ulcers caused by wearing them after work. Method: In this study, 5 types of shoes available in the market that are offered as medical shoes were selected and compared with quality ergonomic indicators. In the second stage, the effect of these shoes for wearing for a long time was evaluated, and also the ratio of increase and comfort of the person in the sole of the feet and knees was examined. Results: Only one of the shoes had relatively good conditions for people with diabetes, which by adding new items such as choosing the right fabric for ventilation of the foot area, considering the appropriate anthropometric measurements in the toe area for more comfort, and having a suitable insole to prevent the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders in the lumbar region could be sufficient. Conclusion: In general, a design framework with specific tools is provided to have the right shoes for the proper use of diabetics in the long run. Further research should focus on outsole design tools and other shoe components. |
Objective comparison of two cushions: pressure distribution and postural perceived discomfort
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Author Iolanda Fiorillo, Yu Song, Rosaria Califano, Peter Vink & Alessandro Naddeo |
| Abstract Designing seats is crucial not only for health issues but also for the (dis)comfort perception. The seat pan design could be mainly influenced by two factors: pressure distribution and seat contour. For seat pan discomfort, the lower average pressure is accompanied by less discomfort. Moreover, a seat contour with a large contact area is correlated with more comfort. So, a shaped seat pan was accurately realized following the buttock-thigh shape of an international population (including P5 females and P95 males). For the comfort assessment, a comparison was made between this shaped seat pan (shaped cushion) and a standard aircraft seat pan (flat cushion). Twenty-two international participants (11 males and 11 females, with BMI between 16 and 30) took part in the blind experiment assuming six different postures. Subjective data were gained from questionnaires, whose results showed that the shaped cushion is better in terms of perceived postural comfort. Also, 64% of participants chose the shaped cushion as a preferred cushion because it was more comfortable and suitable for the buttock shape. Objective data were gathered with a pressure mat, and results showed a higher contact area and lower mean pressure distribution for shaped cushion. Significant correlations were calculated between objective and subjective data with Spearman Correlation coefficients. |
Envisaging regenerative futures through Good Work Design
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Author Elise Crawford, Sara Pazell & Nektarios Karanikas |
| Abstract As we move towards a fifth industrial revolution, concerns about the future of work are heightened. To answer the call for work that we all want, this paper extends the concept of Good Work Design (GWD) introduced by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society in Australia in 2020. Following an overview of GWD, we present a list of respective features with the purpose to advance a humancentred design-led approach to workplace strategy that reconciles business success with worker health. Moreover, we argue that effective design practice should be regenerative, expanding capacity and capability for design throughout the organisation, while supporting sustainable futures. The goal of this paper is to stimulate ongoing debate, research, and practice in good work design. |
Making the Right Choices: Behavioural Safety for Designers on a Construction Project
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Author Shelley Stiles |
| Abstract Behavioural safety programmes are widely used across the Construction Industry, largely targeted at influencing behaviours of frontline workers and/or leadership behaviours. However, there is limited application of behavioural safety at the pre-construction (design) phase of a construction project, given the importance of the design community in eliminating and mitigating health and safety risks. This paper details a case study for the application of behavioural safety intervention targeted at the design community for a large infrastructure project. |
Building a New Hospital: the role of Human Factors
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Author Lauren Morgan, David Higgins & Sue Deakin |
| Abstract The HF approach places all stakeholders at the heart of any project to identify their needs and ensure these are being met, ultimately to optimise efficiency and safety. With regards to building a new hospital, this includes not only patients’ needs, but also those of hospital staff, support workers, volunteers, and patients’ contacts. This paper discusses the approaches taken, and benefits realised |
Assessing pilots’ mental workload using touchscreen inceptor for future flight deck design
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Author Joao Paulo Macedo, Kyle Hu, Rani Quiram & Samarth Vilas Burande |
| Abstract Touchscreen displays are one of the pillars of future flight deck design and it is foreseen that at some point traditional flight control inceptors will be modified to a touchscreen version. However, this transition can only be safe and successful with due regard for human performance implications. This study addresses it by comparing pilots’ mental workload for a traditional sidestick and an innovative touchscreen control inceptor. The results indicate that the new technology increases pilot workload, suggesting that further development is required to use it in future flight decks. |
Putting Ostomates at the Heart of Pouch Design
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Author Anna McLister, Chloe Roberts & A C B Medeiros |
| Abstract Ostomy pouches are used daily by over 13,000 people in the UK each year, to collect effluent from their stomas. Although this Class I medical device has undergone a design revolution since the 1940s, ostomates’ needs are still not being fully realised. Building upon knowledge and insights gained from interviewing and surveying ostomates, this paper will explore how applying key Human Factors considerations could help inform the future design of ostomy pouches and ultimately, improve the quality of life of ostomates. |
Leaps and Shunts: Designing pilot decision aids on the flight deck using Rasmussen’s ladders
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Author Victoria A. Banks, Katherine L. Plant and Neville A. Stanton |
| Abstract When designing a new pilot decision aid for the flight deck, it is important to understand ‘how’ pilots make decisions in abnormal operating scenarios so that we can ensure they are provided with appropriate support. This paper provides a decision ladder analysis of an aircraft engine oil leak using data collected from six commercial airline pilot interviews. Traditionally, decision-making models are used reactively as a means to explore why things go wrong. However, we explore whether these models can also be used prospectively. Our analysis yields a number of possible design implications for the design of a pilot decision aid on the flight deck. |
Introducing an Autonomous Crewmember
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Author Helen MUNCIE |
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Defining Activities of Daily Living for the Design of Dementia Care Environments
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Author Charlotte JAIS, Sue HIGNETT, Martin HABELL, Adonika BROWN and Eef HOGERVORST |
| Abstract Activities of daily living (ADLs) are an important part of dementia care due to their impact on quality of life. This study looked at perceptions of ADLs in the context of designing dementia care environments through an online questionnaire targeted at design professionals and healthcare workers. Participants suggested that certain activities such as physical activity and social interaction, which go beyond the traditional definition of ADLs, are also highly important considerations in the design of dementia care homes. The results suggest that current definitions of ADLs may be too restrictive. This has implications for care practice and care home design. |
Persona-Technology footprint: an evaluation of 144 student’s perceptions of a person using assistive technology
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Author George Torrens, Ian Storer Salman Asghar Ruth Welsh & Karl Hurn |
| Abstract The persona-technology footprint is the visual balance between the enabling technologies associated with an individual and the person. This design heuristic enables a practitioner to quickly assess the area of visible technology compared with that of the person. The objective of a designer is to minimise the perceived technology and emphasise the personality of the individual. This study looks to provide detail about the visual balance between areas of a person covered by assistive technology and which areas of a person it is important to ensure are visible. A survey of 144 undergraduate design students involved them choosing where they considered they no longer saw ‘the person’, due to them being covered by assistive technology. This involved three different line drawings: one that had different sections of the person’s profile blacked out to represent the presence of equipment in front of the person; the second with the outer profile of the person visually broken by the overlapping blacked section; and, a line drawing of a person’s head with blacked out sections that both covered areas of the head and broke the outer profile. The points chosen by students were collated and processed statistically using ANOVA. In all three choices, students chose the point where the person was covered up to the point of their eyes being covered. This suggests we view another person’s eyes to represent them more than any other part of their body. Further studies are required to explore this outcome. |
Social camouflage: a survey of 143 students of their preference for assistive technology cutlery and the visual mechanisms being influenced
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Author George Torrens, Ian Storer, Salman Asghar, Ruth Welsh & Karl Hurn |
| Abstract Camouflage has been used extensively in modern military applications for over one hundred years. However, social camouflage has been used by artists and designers for even longer within clothing, body-worn accessories and more recently automotive and product design. Most practising designers learn this tacit heuristic through trial and error or passed on through master-student experience. This paper will provide the theoretical principles behind the heuristic and validate their application through evidence from different sources. A series of photographs was compiled of seven commercially available cutlery for people with limited grip strength or mobility in their hands that included a set that embodied the principles of social camouflage. The optimum shapes for grip in these sets highlights their unconventional shape, making them often less desirable to use in public. A survey of preferences for a range of cutlery was completed with 143 students using a semantic differential (SD) scale, with ‘least medical’ and ‘most medical’ as the polar nouns. A sample of eight students, four male, four females, completed the survey again using computer screen-based eye tracking. The areas of interest and the order of movement of fixations were noted. The SD scale order placed the perception of the social camouflaged cutlery as more medical than desirable in contradiction to current sales of the product. Eye tracking highlighted that students followed the outline of the highest contrast visual elements when viewing the socially camouflaged cutlery; being drawn away from the outline of the actual shape. In all others, the outline profile was prominent. |
Urban Mobility: Airtaxi Cabin from a Passengers Point of View
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Author Ivana Moerland-Masic, Fabian Reimer, Maria Stolz, Thomas-Matthias Bock |
| Abstract Within German Aerospace Center (DLR), a project called HorizonUAM was launched in July 2020. Its main goal is to develop and design an aerial vehicle which would support the infrastructure of the ever-growing cities and strengthening the connection between as well the big cities as cities with their suburban areas. The vehicle will be designed for the four different scenarios: airport shuttle, intracity transport, intercity transport and suburban connection. This paper shows the research concerning the potential users of the vehicle including their requirements and shows a possible design solution for an airtaxi cabin. The process has followed the Design Thinking Method, ensuring a central role for the users. To determine whether there are potential passengers willing to use such a vehicle, in-depth research has been done. Data found in previously done research has been compared with results of the in-house research, consisting of a number of workshops with representatives of German population as well as results form questionnaires sent out to a different group of German population. During the workshops, the subjects were asked not only to indicate their opinion on the airtaxis, but also to create their own version of it. This was done following the so-called Disney method, creating the solution in three stages: dreamer, realist and critic. Based on this data, different fictive personas are created, to aid in understanding of the user’s needs. In addition, trend analysis on how the urban mobility is developing, has also been executed. The state-of-the-art solutions available are analyzed and their strengths and weaknesses determined. The entire research has resulted in an extensive list of requirements for the design of the cabin. To address such a complex design challenge, a morphological chart has been created, systematically deconstructing the main function into subfunctions. This has been done by multiple workshops with a constant team. |
H-FIT: Assessing the human factors impact of proposed changes to the railway
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Author Nora Balfe |
| Abstract This paper describes the background, development, and content of a new tool, H-FIT, to assess the likely human factors impact of proposed railway change projects. The tool provides a structured approach to identifying the scope and requirements for human factors integration at early project stages, around which the human factors activities can be specified and planned. The core of the tool is 14 design scope factors which range from planned changes to the work environment, to the introduction of new HMIs, and changes in working hours. These design scope factors are linked to physical and organisational design outcomes, such as accessibility, usability, and fatigue. Human factors goals can be set for each area of design scope against the related design outcomes. |
Gender-Equitable Human Factors in Transport Research
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Author Katie J. Parnell, Joy Richardson & Kirsten Madeira-Revell |
| Abstract The transport domain suffers from a historic ‘default male’ bias which has disadvantaged women in facilitating their travel needs, limited their choice in transport modes and increased their risk of serious injury. ‘Close the Data Gap’ (CtDG) is a working group of Human Factors and Transport researchers striving for gender-equity within the transport domain. This paper provides a summary of the issues in the domain and how the group is challenging them. |
An approach for modelling sociotechnical influences in mixed human-artificial agent workforce design
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Author Ashleigh Brady and Neelam Naikar |
| Abstract Advances in intelligent technologies have made it feasible to consider future workforces with a mix of human and sophisticated artificial actors. During periods of significant societal transformation, organisations must be responsive to a range of public and governmental concerns in order to remain viable or effective. The sociotechnical influences space (SIS) models the social, psychological, cultural, and technological factors that must be considered in designing a future workforce that is not only safe, productive, and healthy, but also one that is acceptable to society. While these factors are largely studied in isolation by specialists in different disciplines, this model considers how the confluence of factors can shape the outcomes that are reached. The model utilises a representational scheme that captures the relevant sociotechnical factors at different levels of the societal system, highlighting the stratum at which individual factors are open to modification and should therefore be addressed. The model also captures links or influences between sociotechnical factors, both within and across system levels, identifying how factors interact to produce desirable workforce outcomes of safety, productivity, health, and acceptability. A proof-of-concept study demonstrates how the SIS could be utilised to model sociotechnical influences of significance in mixed human-artificial agent workforce design, focusing on the Royal Australian Air Force as a hypothetical example. If such an approach is utilised, it should provide organisations with a systematic basis for informing policy development and for identifying organisational bodies and actors who, through their spheres of influence and responsibility, can shape the outcomes that are reached. Through these avenues, the range of sociotechnical issues can be addressed, preparing people and processes to capitalise on the benefits of a novel technological future rapidly and successfully—in a way that is safe, productive, healthy, and acceptable to society. |
Human Factors Guidance for Robotic and Autonomous Systems (RAS)
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Author Claire Hillyer, Hannah State-Davey, Nicole Hooker, Richard Farry, Russell Bond, James Campbell, Phillip Morgan, Dylan Jones, Juan D. Hernández Vega & Philip Butler |
| Abstract This paper outlines recent (2021/2022) work to produce Human Factors (HF) guidance to support the design, development, evaluation, and acquisition of Robotic and Autonomous Systems. |
Designing an information, communication and entertainment interface for SMART retirement living
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Author Garth Ledingham, Ella Cotterill & Huseyin Dogan |
| Abstract COVID-19 has left society and adults over the age of 65 needing to redefine daily life, to overcome deteriorating physical and mental wellbeing. Social distancing requirements in retirement communities have left residents feeling alienated, which has accelerated the need to acquire more unfamiliar technology in order to resume as near a normal life as possible. Two retirement community studies in Florida USA and Scotland UK, were undertaken to determine if an information, communication and entertainment technology interface could overcome accessibility and parsimonious factors to become a viable precursor to next generation SMART retirement living. Thirty-six respondents in an online survey indicated notable SMART phone, laptop and tablet use; however perceived usefulness of social media and video telephony varied. These would all be key elements of any digital retirement community. Semi-structured interviews illustrated increased narrow technology use of heterogeneous online services but posed ergonomic and pedagogical questions. A purpose-built low fidelity prototype was proposed and tested using a Cognitive Walk Through and Concurrent Think Aloud. It may have indicated an attractive solution, but concerns around residents’ privacy, security and the perceived freedom of choice would need further exploration. User experience (UX) designers and retirement operators will need to consider these influencing factors within future studies if they are to create a SMART living interface which builds self-efficacy and strengthens social connectedness over time. |
The complexity of connectivity
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Author Daniel P. Jenkins |
| Abstract The introduction of the internet and the proliferation of connected devices has completely revolutionised almost every aspect of our lives. For many of us, the way that we work, move around, shop, and even socialise has changed dramatically in the last twenty-five years. What’s more, it is safe to say that we are only partway through this connected revolution. Advances in communication technologies and microprocessors are making it possible to connect more things – allowing for further changes in the way we live our lives, the way we manage our family’s health, and how we interact with each other. While connectivity brings great opportunities, it also brings a number of challenges. Many of the dominant tools and philosophies within human factors practice remain based around a dialogue of human-machine interaction – whereby a user provides inputs to a device and the device provides feedback and information. As we migrate towards a world that now has a connected variant of almost every product imaginable, how should we be designing these devices? This paper and talk will address this question, describing the challenge for practitioners and describing how systems-based tools can play an important role in informing the design or the next generation of products. |
A Vision for the Future of Radiotherapy
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Author Daniel P. JENKINS, Andrew WOLFENDEN, David J. GILMORE, Malcolm BOYD |
| Abstract This paper describes how a suite of research techniques were used to inform the development of a vision for the future of radiotherapy. The aim of the vision was to conceptualise a next-generation radiotherapy system that creates a step-change in system performance. The impact of the vision on patient and HCP experience, safety, and efficiency were all explicitly considered and measured. The vision was used to inform the design of Elekta’s release of Atlantic – a high-field MRI-guided radiation therapy system. |
Design with intent on the flight deck
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Author Victoria A. Banks, Katie J. Parnell, Katherine L. Plant & Neville A. Stanton |
| Abstract New flight deck technologies must be carefully integrated to ensure that the demands of the system match the capabilities of the user. However, as technological advances make technologies more efficient, end users become the increasingly weak link within the chain. With this in mind, it is important that manufacturers take the time to acknowledge Human Factors within the design process and utilise opportunities to engage with actual end users, in this case line pilots. This article focuses on the design and development of a new pilot decision aid that can offer flight crews with relevant information regarding the status of the aircraft during abnormal operating procedures (e.g. following an indication of an engine oil leak). It utilises the Design with Intent method to generate novel design concepts for a new flight deck interface. This is a new method to apply to the domain but holds the potential to incorporate extensive feedback from pilots into the design of new technologies in the flight deck. Preliminary findings from workshops with pilots using this method are discussed with examples taken from the workshop on how the method can inform design concepts. Overall the method was found to generate important key areas of discussion that can be utilised in a user-centred design approach within future flight deck technology development. |
A participatory approach to helicopter user interface design
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Author David McNeish & Martin Maguire |
| Abstract The importance of involving users during user interface (UI) design activities is widely recognised however the nature of this involvement may vary significantly. This study investigated the benefits and challenges of applying Participatory Design (PD) during the development of helicopter UI. During the first phase, four helicopter design professionals were interviewed in order to understand their views on user involvement and current approaches. The second phase involved three helicopter test pilots and three human factors specialists participating in a PD workshop (based on design thinking) focussed on a helicopter UI design case study (the Automatic Flight Control System within a Royal Navy Merlin Mark 2). There was strong agreement from all the participants that user involvement is important and current approaches were described as mainly consultative. Benefits identified included a better understanding of the problem and context of use and therefore closer alignment of the design with user needs. The approach encouraged divergent thinking and benefitted from being multidisciplinary. Minor changes to the workshop format should be considered in order to minimise the risk of bias and make the best use of the participants’ time. This study developed a valuable approach to PD which is likely to be generalizable to other domains. |
A Quantitative Approach to Determining Inclusive Design Features Within UK Railway Depots
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Author Kimberley Harding & David Hitchcock |
| Abstract Inclusive design is fast becoming a talking point for engineers, ergonomists, and designers. With holistic views on accessibility and inclusion in railways at the forefront of modern-day design and culture, it is a novel concept which could drastically change how we live and work. However, despite common interest in pursuing inclusive design strategies for railway passengers, there are significant gaps in inclusive thinking for railway workers – namely those who work in depots and trackside. Despite reforming modern system safety techniques, 2022 saw a significant increase in workforce injuries and little to no assistance in returning to work post-injury (Johnson, 2023). Limited accessibility and manoeuvrability in railway depots and trackside sees a workforce of injured staff unable to properly return to their original place of work and having to re-train in a less demanding sector. In response to this, this paper presents findings and methodologies for quantifying the inclusiveness of depot design from a user-centred approach. The data captured emulates how staff experience working in train maintenance and what aspects could be improved to encourage inclusivity in the workplace whilst enabling staff to work to their highest potential. It is hoped that this research could reduce bias in quantifying inclusive design elements in depots, framing a new scope for what is deemed ‘accessible’ or ‘non-accessible’ to make railway depots a better working environment for all. |
Training of occupational health and safety professionals in design thinking
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Author Ole Broberg and Sisse Grøn |
| Abstract There is a need for making occupational health and safety management more agile and involving relevant stakeholders early on in the problem-solving process. We propose the design thinking (DT) approach as a candidate for this endeavour. DT may be defined by the double diamond model pointing to a non-linear problem-solving process iterating through divergent and convergent phases. The first diamond is focussed on exploring and defining the problem to be solved. In the second diamond many ideas for solutions are developed and tested, and in the end the best solution is chosen. In this study we investigate if occupational health and safety professionals can learn a DT approach with the help of a training program. It was our assumption that the ‘designerly’ way of problem framing and solving were well suited for complex workplace problems. Hence, we designed an interactive research project in which six experienced professionals from three organisations completed a DT training program. The ultimate goal of the project was to develop guidelines and tools that can support occupational health and safety professionals in applying the DT approach. The six participants in the training program were four internal professionals in companies and two professionals in an occupational health service consultancy. After a full-day workshop in which we introduced the DT approach and tools, the participants were instructed to plan and facilitate a DT problem-solving process in their own company or within a customer company. The company cases included two focusing on a psychosocial workplace challenge and two focusing on a musculoskeletal challenge. The first two cases were both within municipality services, and the others were in a pharmaceutical company and a mail distribution centre. |
A Human Factors Approach to Understanding and Designing for Infection Prevention and Control in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
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Author Chantal TRUDEL, Sue COBB, Kathryn MOMTAHAN, Janet BRINTNELL and Ann MITCHELL |
| Abstract Qualitative methods were used to understand infection prevention and control breaches within an existing neonatal intensive care unit and inform future design development. The study aimed to identify the main issues that health care workers experience in infection prevention and control and their relationship to the design of the environment. Methods from human-centred design such as planning, stakeholder meetings and naturalistic observation were used to document the unit, work processes, interactions, behaviours and perspectives of health care workers related to infection prevention and control. Thematic analysis was used to identify core issues, subthemes and their interrelationship to share with staff and inform recommendations. |
Holistic outcome-driven approach: How do patients and providers prioritise healthcare outcomes?
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Author I. Cecilia Landa-Avila, Gyuchan Thomas Jun, Carolina Escobar-Tello and Rebecca Cain |
| Abstract Healthcare systems are facing pressures to fulfil various needs from different stakeholders at different levels. Different stakeholders tend to prioritise different sets of healthcare outcomes. Consequently, how outcomes are valued or prioritised by different stakeholders needs to be understood in a holistic way to develop and improve new or existent systems. Human factors frameworks and approaches such as Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) and Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA) recognise the importance of outcomes, but fewer practical approaches for understanding and communicating outcomes as interrelated systems exist. This study applied network analysis as a practical approach to collect, aggregate and visualise interrelations among multiple outcomes. Also, this practical approach provides a mechanism for different stakeholders to communicate and negotiate priorities for holistic outcome-driven healthcare system development. We conducted graphic facilitation mapping interviews with ten patients with chronic conditions and eleven healthcare providers. Participants built outcome interrelationship maps following three steps: 1) Select and explain meaningful and ideal outcomes. 2) Make sense of outcomes by creating influence relationships and groups. 3) Select the most important outcome. Two outcome-based visualisations emerged from the network analysis respectively for patients and healthcare providers. Agreements, disagreements and critical outcomes between patients and providers were identified from those analyses. Wellbeing was equally acknowledged by both groups. However, patients prioritised outcomes such as personal resilience and self-monitoring, while providers prioritised integrated working, (re)admissions and hospitalisations. Overall, this practical approach contributes to a holistic outcomes integration for healthcare systems developing. The mapping process supports interrelated outcomes collection, while the network analysis offers a novel visual communication strategy to identify critical outcomes. This practical approach may complement frameworks such as SEIPS and CWA. A further study could be conducted to explore how multiple stakeholders use this approach for collectively discussing and negotiating their outcome prioritisation. |
Human Factors Mock-Up Facilities in a Technology Oriented Industry
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Author Sara BURY, Michael HESPLEY, Nicki MCCANN and Anna WELCH |
| Abstract In an age of technology and computer aided design this paper highlights our experiences in support of access to low fidelity mock-up facilities as an additional resource to assist with spatial arrangement assessments and personnel hazard analysis. |
Ergonomic chair design for ENT, Eye, Neurosurgery and Plastic surgeons
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Author Shahrzad Riaei, Hadi Daneshmandi, Mohsen Razeghi, Bahram Kouhnavard & Zahra Zamanian |
| Abstract Surgeons usually work with sharp tools and sophisticated equipment that create many opportunities for neck, finger, hand, arm or wrist injuries. Despite their limited knowledge of ergonomics, they try to reduce pain during surgery. The most commonly used approach is position change. Today, surgeons use minimally invasive methods. These procedures often impose more physical needs on the surgeon than open surgery. Ergonomic chairs designed for surgeons do not provide the ergonomic position required for microscopic surgery but they can prevent back pain during open surgery. Over the past two decades, new innovations have led to a significant increase in the prevalence of microscopic surgeries, so this study aimed to investigate the characteristics of an ergonomic surgeon chair and its design for use in microscopic surgeries. |
Ergonomics in the absence of training or supervision – making products safer globally
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Author Gordon Hayward |
| Abstract Adult consumers – and many professionals – are expected to be able to use almost all the products they buy without supervision or training. Many of those products will pose residual hazards that are not necessarily obvious and may be ineffective or sub-optimal for their task if used erroneously. Only a few products can be designed to be completely intuitive and totally benign or fail-safe. Whether products are used safely and successfully depends not only on the variability of individual users and their environment but also on the effectiveness of the instructions and warnings prepared and supplied by the manufacturer. Shaping product instructions to meet users’ needs and capabilities is an ergonomics concern just as much as shaping seating, control panels or organisational structures. What constitutes good practice in the preparation and presentation of product instructions became clear from research in ergonomics and related disciplines before the end of the last century, but the application of these practices across jurisdictions and product manufacturing sectors (particularly in smaller scale businesses and low-price consumer products) has been poor in the absence of an internationally accepted standard. Achieving this has required engaging with other stakeholders within the unfamiliar structures and processes of the international standards bodies – persistently over several years. The message here is that for human factors research and experience to have a positive influence on product safety and usability at a global scale, ergonomists need to engage with other professionals in ways and environments outside the scope of usual ergonomics career paths or job descriptions. |
Developing a Heuristic Tool for Evaluation of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) Mobile Application Interfaces
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Author Joy Richardson, Henrietta Howarth & Jisun Kim |
| Abstract Mobility as a Service (MaaS) mobile phone applications are being launched in many towns and cities worldwide and are heralded as the ultimate modern mobility solution by combining private, public, micro and active travel options. However, in order to encourage adoption by the public the user-experience (UX) is of high importance. A useful way to evaluate the UX of an app interface is to use heuristics analysis, yet none of the existing heuristics tools are tailored towards mobility apps. This means they are not suitable for a systematic evaluation of MaaS interfaces. Therefore a new heuristics tool was developed in order to evaluate the interfaces of mobility apps, including MaaS. This was achieved through the evaluation of existing heuristics combined with the determination of the needs of the mobility app user. A number of iterations were developed, tested and revised in order to design a useful and usable tool. |
Team situational awareness: practitioner-centred design of a safety huddles toolkit
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Author William GREEN, Ceri JONES, John MALTBY, Simon ROBINSON, Damian ROLAND and Carol STAFFORD |
| Abstract Patients die every year because of failure to recognize early warnings of deterioration. A contributing factor is poor team communication and situational awareness. This paper describes the practitioner-centred design of a safety huddles toolkit. Interviews, observations and collective discussions conducted synchronously (face-face) and asynchronously (virtually) informed decisions to iteratively design the toolkit. The toolkit is designed for continuous adaptation to allow practitioner-led improvement for different clinical specialties. Indicative findings (from 50 teams adopting the toolkit) suggest practitioners find it useful for adopting safety huddles and improving team communication and patient awareness. The adoption of the toolkit has been extended 6 months after project completion. |
A Tool to Generate ‘HF Meaningfulness’ in the Design and Development of Armoured Fighting Vehicles
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Author David KEANE and Chris AVIS |
| Abstract The design and development of Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) at Lockheed Martin UK Ampthill (LMUKA) takes a Systems Engineering approach and incorporates many engineering disciplines. One of these is Human Factors (HF), which contributes to a number of other disciplines. To support this contribution and to generate ‘HF meaningfulness’ the LMUKA HF Team developed the Systems Engineering Comparison Technique (SECT). The SECT takes a User Centred Design (UCD) approach and incorporates the pairwise comparison technique developed by Thurstone (1927). The main aim of SECT is to take subjective scores and generate objective scores that can be used by Design Engineers and Engineering Leads for improving the design of AFVs. This is done by highlighting the design strengths and weaknesses, which are then fed into future design iterations. |
A Human Factors review of “the Blue Puffer” asthma reliever inhaler
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Author Deborah Stratford & Susan Whalley-Lloyd |
| Abstract The literature reports that Asthma Inhaler technique has not improved during the last forty years, despite improvement strategies focused on educating users to improve their technique and compliance. This is particularly critical for reliever inhaler users when ‘use error’ may result in a full asthma attack and possible death. This paper presents a pilot study Human Factors design review of the standard UK reliever inhaler, commonly referred to as ‘the blue puffer’. The results indicate a mismatch between ‘work as done’ and ‘work as imagined’ and that this mismatch appears to be influenced by the design of the inhaler. Conceptually it appears possible to improve the design of technical components of the inhaler system to reduce use errors and hence improve patient safety. This would require appropriate scenario and user testing, with any changes being integrated into the system as a whole. |
Inception, ideation and implementation: developing interfaces to improve drivers’ fuel efficiency
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Author Craig K. Allison, Neville A. Stanton, James M. Fleming, Xingda Yan, Forough Goudarzi & Roberto Lot |
| Abstract Cognitive Work Analysis has become a staple methodology for human factors and ergonomics researchers and practitioners. Despite this popularity, limited guidance is available to take the insights of the methodology forward into the development of newer systems and interfaces. This paper describes the use of the established design toolkit ‘Design with Intent’ as a suitable approach to help progress the insights of Cognitive Work Analysis towards the development of novel interfaces. An abridged account of developing a Cognitive Work Analysis for fuel efficient driving is presented, alongside the application of the Design with Intent toolkit to progress the insights from the Cognitive Work Analysis to generate novel design ideas which can be incorporated into future interfaces. Finally, early development work, compiling the ideas generated using the Design with Intent toolkit, is presented, demonstrating the potential for this combination of methods to produce interfaces for future testing and validation. |
Handling diversity during development when using design trade-offs
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Author Mike Tainsh |
| Abstract The handling of diversity of user characteristics in maritime developments has become increasingly important. A novel technique is proposed for use when designing for diversity in cases where optimum solutions cannot be attained and when trades must be made between variables within design options. A brief review is provided on the technique of “trade-offs” in design. A novel “trade-off” technique is proposed. This approach enables an acceptable design to be identified which includes a statement to support risk assessment. The approach is being developed within BAES for maritime systems and helps ensure that individual, including gender differences, are addressed successfully. |
Which design features differentiate expectations in automotive seating comfort? A mixed methods approach
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Author Tugra Erol, Cyriel Diels, James Shippen & Dale Richards |
| Abstract The study built on previous work and earlier findings where it asks the question which seating design elements in particular are effective in differentiating expected automotive seating comfort. Two hypothesis were tested with a mixed methods approach 1) that automotive seats with triangular integrated headrests and angular shape characteristics lead to a holistic evaluation strategy for consumers, and 2) for seats that displayed padded areas which were deemed more comfortable would afford more localised attention hotspots. Twenty seven participants were asked to evaluate 15 automotive seat designs. Participants were asked to evaluate in terms of comfort. The seats were evaluated using a combination of methods and measures: gaze behaviour, subjective emotional responses and mark-up by participants on images followed by card sorting. The cumulative heat map plots across the different designs showed that a considerable amount of visual attention was focused on the shoulder support and the lumbar upper back support areas. Significant main effects as a function of design on expected automotive seat comfort and emotional response were found. |
Soma design to enhance aircraft passenger comfort
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Author Mahnaz Sharafkhani, Paul Tennen2, Elizabeth Argyle & Sue Cobb |
| Abstract Aircraft passengers can become uncomfortable while seated because of the restricted physical space. This work aims to investigate a new strategy for designing interventions that can be used to encourage aircraft passengers to move more while seated and thus to improve their perceived level of comfort. We discuss the utility of applying the ‘soma design’ methodology to creating these interventions, which aim to target specific body discomfort areas identified in a previous study. In this paper, we report on a series of design activities to address this challenge. |
Air travel during pandemic context: Designing for a better Economy Class flight experience
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Author Rosa Tão-Lindo & José Rui Marcelino |
| Abstract This work focuses on the aeronautical industry during the pandemic context experienced recently. The Economy Class represents the largest capacity for carrying passengers. Therefore, the challenge of improving physical comfort and safety in this place is the goal of this project. The world of air travel has been under threat since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and may never be the same again. The idea of spending time inside a closed aircraft with low social distance is not pleasant. Flying in this context is undeniably hard, taking into account all the understandable ambiguity and stress surrounding passenger’s health and safety. Hence, the mission to redefine what travel can and should be in this new era is born. The following investigation gives rise to a proposal that aims to reduce the infection’s possibility on board. After approaching the knowledge through state of the art, surveys were structured, supported by direct and indirect posture and behavior observation inside the airplane. Based on the first inquiry results were made some concept proposals. Later, the previous concepts gave rise to study models and then, to prototypes that allowed a real project validation. The objects were first tested by a virtual survey, then in a physical seat in isolation, and finally during an actual flight context. Based on the results of this mixed, interventionist, and non-interventionist methodology of quantitative character, the author designed two iterations and a set of future search recommendations. The investigation results were considered conclusive. From a theoretical context, it was possible to identify a design work opportunity for this sector, supported by the first inquiry – which argues that there are ergonomic needs and that safety feeling is relatively low. Regarding the practical component, it was possible to verify an increase in comfort level using the proposed product compared to the original airplane seat. For future research, the inflatable materials exploration, systems with memory foam, and reactive using fabrics would contribute to the project enrichment. |
Human Machine Teaming and Human Centred Design
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Author Sue Ottley, Jaina Mistry, Kerry Tatlock & Chris Vance |
| Abstract Human Machine Teaming (HuMaT) systems are expected to become increasingly important and common in the UK military domain as a result of changes in both technology and the Battlespace; however the role of the human user is expected to be retained, though it may change. HuMaT systems are sociotechnical systems where needs and behaviours may be emergent and hard to predict from previous systems behaviours, therefore framing formal requirements prior to design can be difficult and sometimes counterproductive. The complex and variable nature of interactions within Human Machine Teams (HMT) means that traditional technology centric design processes do not easily support them, if the best use is to be made of both human and technology actors then a process more focused on user goals and constraints is required. This paper outlines the considerations for applying a Human Centred Design (HCD) process to developing HuMaT systems and how HCD addresses the challenges presented by a technology centric process. |
