My Interests

Human Error

Several factors can lead to design-induced human error, including the simple fact that the goals of the designer of the system or the product are often different than those of the end user. This can result in unintended consequences, even if the participant or user has been trained or follows instructions.

Human Error can be reduced through several methods. A Walkthrough Test can be performed during development to understand the end users' mental model and implement design solutions to improve intuitive features. A systematic approach is Human Error Analysis, a process by which a Task Analysis is implemented to review consequences of Human Error and creation of controls to prevent or mitigate the error.

Critical Environments

Our surroundings have a significant impact on our ability to perform essential tasks and our capacity to adapt to unexpected situations. Imagine completing a jigsaw puzzle - a brightly-lit, uncluttered, quiet working space is much more conducive than somewhere like a busy factory floor. While it may seem common-sense, this principle is often not followed. Environments where crucial tasks are performed inherently have different requirements than other environments.

Many times environmental factors are considered secondary to performing the main objective. However, understanding the effects of the surrounding environment on performance can lead to drastic improvements in workload and safety.

User-Centered Design

One of the most far-reaching Human Factors principles is the enhanced focus on the human performing the work or using the product. This is best shown in designs that are have usability and human-centeredness as primary considerations.

Often thought of as primarily useful in the design of products and design, this principle can be easily applied to much more. When designing a facility, the layout of the floorplan may be one of the last things on a designer's mind - but understanding how the facility will be used can lead to design choices that improve the usability of the area. Similarly, a process can be tailored to the people performing it to allow for increased productivity and less workload required.

Usability tests can be implemented throughout the design process and even after the product or system is already in use.

Workload Reduction

Workload involves more than a to-do list. Physical workload considers the needs of the task from the perspective of the body. The amount of movement, strength, and reach needed to perform tasks are all inherent needs included in physical workload.

Cognitive workload involves the mental capacity needed to complete a task, and a high cognitive workload can be very detrimental to performance. Temporal workload refers to the time constraints surrounding the task, including when in the process the work is done and how long it takes to perform.

Workload assessments and time studies can lead to features that reduce all types of workload, not only improving the process for the human performing the work, but also increasing safety and minimizing negative outcomes.