bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
User Centered Design of Human Factors Class Projects
Authors: Klatsky Gary J.
Published: January 2012

Teaching introductory Human Factors at a small liberal arts college poses a number of unique problems in the development of projects that provide appropriate hands-on activities for students. Students may not have an understanding of what the course entails, and may not have the technological skills needed to conduct a human factors project. Selecting a project that involves the students personally is essential to a successful educational experience. Student access to the services and information located in the campus administration building was identified by the students as one of the critical problems on campus. Three groups of students from a human factors psychology course conducted assessments including a needs assessment, anthropometric evaluations, environment assessment, and task analysis leading to a design proposal. The proposals included furniture design, static displays and human computer interfaces. The students enthusiastically participated in the hands-on activity that provided a full range of human factors experience
Office Environment Syndrome Study: Part II
Authors: Hedge Alan , Erickson William A.
Published: January 2012

A longitudinal self-report diary study of SBS cases and controls identified from buildingwide surveys of 4 office buildings is described. Self-report diaries were distributed to a total of 214 workers in the 4 buildings, and complete returns were obtained for 123 workers (57% return rate). Climate conditions (CO, CO2, formaldehyde, respirable dust mass (PM3.5) and particulate counts (0.3 μm, 0.5 μm, 1 μm, 5 μm), settled dust, air temperature, %RH, illuminance) were measured at each workstation. Ergonomic factors (observed work posture, office type, desk paper coverage, desk clutter, computer, mouse, keyboard tray, age of chair, chair arms, and plants, were measured at each workstation. Results showed no differences in prevailing climate conditions measured at case/control workstations. However, case reports of symptoms and environment conditions generally were worse than those for controls, and these reports showed periodicity, peaking late each day. The differences between reports by cases and controls generally remained consistent throughout the duration of the study.
Context Specificity in Performance - The Defining Problem for Human Factors/Ergonomics
Authors: Smith Thomas J.
Published: January 2012

This report addresses what I believe represents the major unresolved problem confronting the field of human factors/ergonomics (HF/E): context—also termed design—specificity in human behavior and performance. Context specificity implies an intimate interaction, or coupling, between performance and design. The problem of context specificity in performance can be framed in terms of: (1) the difficulties it poses for basic and applied research in HF/E; (2) its relevance to social and organizational performance; (3) underlying neurobehavioral mechanisms; and (4) validity of models of human behavior and performance. Questions addressing these different problem areas are introduced, followed by a series of strategies and conclusions directed at problem resolution. The conceptual perspective adopted here for understanding context specificity is that of behavioral cybernetics, which assumes that task-specific variance in performance occurs as an inevitable consequence of dynamic spatiotemporal feedback interaction between sensory feedback (design) and sensory feedback control (motor behavior).
The USAF Multivariate Accommodation Method
Authors: Hudson Jeffrey A. , Zehner Gregory F. , Meindl Richard S.
Published: January 2012

The USAF has been using a multivariate method for specifying pilot body size for nearly ten years. The Multivariate Accommodation software was originally written for a VMS environment using the statistical package SAS. It is now available for PC computers. The program is based on the CADRE statistical method developed by Bittner (1987), and the Anthropometric Database at the Computerized Anthropometric Research and Design Laboratory (Robinson et al., 1992), and has been very effective in increasing body size accommodation in USAF cockpit designs. The technique relies on principal component analysis which describes the variation of the original multivariate distribution with a set of orthogonal axes (principal components). Selection of the anthropometric measurements, the number of principal components used to represent the variation in their distribution, and a full understanding of the assumptions implicit in the model are all critical in generating useful representative accommodation cases. The authors will discuss previous applications of the method as well as demonstrate its limitations when used outside of cockpit/workstation designs.
LBD Risk Factors and the Structural Stability Tolerance of the Lumbar Spine
Authors: Granata Kevin P.
Published: January 2012

A model of low-back injury is presented suggesting structural instability is a risk factor in occupation injury. The purpose of this research was to document the potential for spinal buckling as a function of asymmetric and sagittal trunk angle during lifting. A biomechanical model was developed to compute the Euler stability and determine the structural tolerance of the lumbar spine in work-related postures. When applied load and associated spinal compression exceeds the structural tolerance, i.e. buckling load, the spinal column fails. Analyses demonstrate the structural tolerance is often less than material tolerance estimates, particularly in flexed and asymmetric postures. Furthermore, the structural tolerance is reduced in sagittally flexed and asymmetric lifting postures. Hence, the relation between stability and trunk posture correlated with low-back disorder (LBD) risk factors. Results suggest musculoskeletal instability may help explain the relation between LBD risk and lifting posture.
Enhancing Patient Safety: A New Movement in Health Care
Authors: Woods David D.
Published: January 2012

Interest in patient safety has created a window of opportunity to bring to bear research results on the human contribution to safety and to failure. Given the unique aspects of different health care settings, how can we use this knowledge base to recognize opportunities for and obstacles to progress on patient safety?
A Work Domain Analysis of Patient Monitoring in the Operating Room
Authors: Hajdukiewicz John R. , Doyle D. John , Milgram Paul , Vicente Kim J. , Burns Catherine M.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a method for structuring the work domain of the anesthesiologist in the operating room, using Rasmussen's (1986) approach for work domain analysis. The goal of this research is to provide an integrated approach for patient monitoring by bridging the gap between physiological principles associated with the patient and clinical practice. Data were collected from literature reviews, discussions with anesthesiologists, operating room observations, and simulator sessions to develop the work domain representation. From this information, the work domain was structured using various levels of abstraction and decomposition, independent of any particular situation. Next, an analysis of the links between the operating room and the work domain was performed. The results indicated that this approach has useful insights for training and interface design. The approach provided a framework for representing the work domain as an invariant purpose-based structure for a constantly changing work environment.
A Time-Interval Analysis of Repetitive Motion Injuries in a Sorting Facility
Authors: Quintana Rolando , Pawlowitz Ivan
Published: January 2012

This paper documents research into repetitive motion injuries (RMIs) occurring at a used garment sorting facility, with a focus on the Poisson distribution model and associated time interval analysis. Time interval analysis is used to confirm existence of a Poisson process. The Poisson process and distribution is then implemented to model the occurrence of RMIs at the target facility, as well as employed in a proactive effort to track and reduce RMIs. As a major player within this labor-intensive industry, the industrial partner experiences a significant number of repetitive motion injuries (RMIs). Analysis is provided on the Poisson process, and the salient RMI risk factors and ergonomic principles that might affect application of the Poisson distribution model. This paper also reviews proposed methodologies for collecting RMI risk factor data, tracking RMI accident or “incident” data, gathering population-specific anthropometric data, and developing RMI hazard reduction strategies. The Poisson model is presented as a structured methodology for the prediction and control of repetitive motion injuries.
Ptap: A Pc-Based Proofreading Task for Examination of Verbal Information Processing
Authors: Jackson Curtis , Smith-Jackson Tonya
Published: January 2012

Proofreading tasks that can be used to measure certain aspects of verbal processing are difficult to find. In addition, it is difficult to modify existing tasks to allow researchers to apply their own stimuli. PTAP, Proofreading Task Analysis Program, is a PC-based proofreading task and analysis program that provides event summaries and rapid analysis and reporting of performance measures. Results produced by PTAP can be used to draw inferences about verbal information processing.
Visual Inspection of Circuit Boards: Effect of Gender, Age, Defect type, and Defect Proportion
Authors: Klamklay J. , Bishu R.R.
Published: January 2012

Visual inspection of printed circuit boards was evaluated through a simulated experiment. Photographs of circuit boards were scanned into a PC and the images were manipulated using a Visual Basic program. The visual inspection performance measured reaction time in seconds and accuracy by measuring the number of incorrect responses given. The independent variables studied in this research were age, gender, defect type, board size, inspection pace, and proportion of defects. Forty subjects participated in this experiment. In summary, the study showed that defect proportion, defect type, age and gender do influence both inspection time and inspection accuracy. Perhaps the most interesting result is that rate of false alarm (decision 2) and misses (decision 1) depend on defect type and proportion. This has interesting ramification for quality professionals.
Evaluation of Human Factors Design Guidelines for Traveler Information Systems
Authors: Campbell John L.
Published: January 2012

Within the human factors community, there is a growing concern regarding the nature and utility of human factors handbooks and guidelines materials. For example, it is well established that human factors guidelines following traditional formats for presenting information are not perceived as being useful, and are often ignored by designers. This paper describes the development and evaluation of human factors design guidelines for Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS) and Commercial Vehicle Operations (CVO). A draft version of the guidelines was reviewed and evaluated by 32 experts in the field. The reviewers were asked to provide detailed comments on the guidelines and to complete a set of rating scales that addressed both general and specific features of the guidelines. Overall, the draft design guidelines were perceived by the ATIS design/research community as being clear, relevant, and easy-to-use. Importantly, they were seen as representing an improvement over existing human factors reference sources.
The Utility of Different Types of Models: Crew Size Evaluation in the Maritime Industry
Authors: Lee John D.
Published: January 2012

Models can be practical tools for addressing problems with complex systems. Their utility derives from their ability to efficiently relate changes in design parameters to system performance. The term “model” has been used to describe a wide range of qualitative and quantitative approaches to system description, understanding, and prediction. Resolving the confusion generated by the multiple meanings of the term “model” has theoretical and practical importance. This paper defines three classes of models to help resolve this confusion: conceptual, computational, and derivative. Conceptual models identify the underlying constraints and causal structure of a system. Computational models operationalize conceptual models with mathematical formalisms. Derivative models summarize the observations of system behavior to relate design parameters to system performance. These distinctions help define the different resource requirements, benefits, and capabilities associated with each class of model. These different classes are illustrated with an example from the maritime industry.
Usability Evaluation and Prototype Fidelity: Users and Usability Professionals
Authors: Catani Michael B. , Biers David W.
Published: January 2012

This study investigated the effect of prototype fidelity on the information obtained from a usability test with potential users of a software product. Users engaged in a series of structured tasks using one of three prototypes which emulated a Microsoft® Windows 95™ based library search computer system and which differed only in their fidelity (low = paper; medium = screen shots, high = interactive Visual Basic prototype). Results indicated there were no significant differences as a function of prototype in the number and severity of problems encountered nor in the subjective evaluation of the product. More importantly, there was a high degree of commonality in the specific problems uncovered by users using the three prototypes. Other noteworthy results were that: (1) usability professionals (through informal heuristics analysis) and users differed in the incidence and commonality of problems identified, and (2) usability professionals did not agree in their ratings of problem severity.
Who Finds what in Usability Evaluation
Authors: Fu Limin , Salvendy Gavriel , Turley Lori
Published: January 2012

For different levels of user performance, different types of information are processed and users will make different types of errors. Based on the error's immediate cause and the information being processed, usability problems can be classified into three categories. They are usability problems associated with skill-based, rule-based, knowledge-based levels of performance. In this paper, a user interface for a Web-based software program was evaluated by two groups - human factor experts and users. The experiment discovered that human factor experts are more effective than users in identifying usability problems associated with skill-based and rule-based levels of performance. Users are more effective than human factor experts in finding usability problems associated with the knowledge-based level of performance. The practical application of this research is also discussed in the paper.
In Search of an Objective Metric for Complex Displays
Authors: Darkow David J. , Marshak William P.
Published: January 2012

Advanced displays for military and other user-interaction intensive systems need objective measures of merit for analyzing the information transfer from the displays to the user. A usable objective metric for display interface designers needs to be succinct, modular and scaleable. The authors have combined the concepts of weighted Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) and multidimensional correlation to calculate a novel index of display complexity. Preliminary data supporting the development of this metric for complex visual, auditory and mixed auditory and visual displays will be presented. Analysis of the human subject data indicates the coefficients for the algorithm are easily determined. Furthermore, the metric can predict reaction-times and accuracy rates for complex displays. This combination of semi-automated reduction of display information and calculation of a single complexity index makes this algorithm a potentially convenient tool for designers of complex display interfaces.
Navigational Training in Virtual and Real Buildings
Authors: Clawson Deborah M. , Miller Michael S. , Knott Benjamin A. , Sebrechts Marc M.
Published: January 2012

Three experiments explored aspects of virtual reality (VR) that may influence its utility for training in navigating architectural spaces. Taken together, these experiments suggest that the utility of virtual reality depends on characteristics of the user-virtual environment interface. In experiments testing the importance of movement control, full participant control of rotational and forward movement in VR led to nearly optimal training on a medium-sized building, but limited control in VR was worse than no control. Transparent walls, a VR possibility that goes beyond real-world options, were beneficial during training and on a direct measure of learning spatial layouts. Finally, in an experiment examining both training and transfer, VR training was similar to real-world training, and was quicker and transferred better to navigating a real-world building than floor-plan training. However, this held only when the testing route was traveled in the trained direction.
Training for Attentional Control in Novice Car Drivers: A Simulator Study
Authors: Regan Michael A. , Deery Hamish A. , Triggs Thomas J.
Published: January 2012

Novice drivers aged 18 to 25 are overrepresented in road accidents. This is partly due to an underdeveloped ability to control their attention. A driving simulator was used to enhance the attentional control skill of novice drivers, using Gopher's “variable priority” (VP) training technique. Three groups of novice drivers with varying on-road experience participated. Half the subjects in each group received VP training; the other half served as controls. All performed two tasks concurrently in the simulator, over 20 training trials. The VP group was instructed over trials to systematically vary the relative amount of attention given to each task. Control subjects were instructed to simply perform the two tasks as well as possible. After training, VP subjects performed significantly better than controls in a transfer of training drive in the simulator involving three sub-tasks, and this was particularly the case for those with greater driving experience. A follow-up experiment replicated and extended these findings.
Using Psychophysics to Measure Negative Side Effects in Immersive Virtual Environments
Authors: McGee Michael K.
Published: January 2012

A study was done to determine the effectiveness of using free modulus magnitude estimation, a psychophysical measurement technique, to assess the experience of negative side effects in users of immersive virtual environments (VEs). Two different task environments, a maze and an office, were factorially combined with head-tracking on or off to provide multiple levels of side effect inducing conditions. Sixteen subjects participated in a four day experiment. Both head-tracking and task environment showed significant main effects. The experiment showed that magnitude estimation is a sensitive, efficient, and effective measure of negative side effects experienced in users of immersive VEs.
Conformality and Target Cueing: Presentation of Symbology in Augmented Reality
Authors: Yeh Michelle , Wickens Christopher D. , Seagull F. Jacob
Published: January 2012

We conducted a study to examine the issues of frame of reference (world-referenced vs. screen-referenced), target expectancy, target cueing, and viewing condition (i.e., one eye versus two) in the design of see-through helmet mounted displays (HMD) in order to determine their effects on tasks of focused and divided attention. Sixteen subjects (8 civilian, 8 military) were asked to detect, identify, and give azimuth information for targets hidden in terrain presented in the far domain (i.e., the world) while performing a monitoring task in the near domain (i.e., the display). The results showed that the presence of cueing aided the target detection task for expected targets but drew attention away from the presence of unexpected targets in the environment. However, analyses support the observation that this effect can be mediated by the use of world-referenced symbology. Displaying symbology to two eyes produced a very slight benefit for target detection when the target was cued.
Human Factors Issues in the Development of an Advanced Digital Moving Map System
Authors: Ruffner John W. , Lohrenz Maura C. , Trenchard Michael E.
Published: January 2012

The U.S. Navy is currently sponsoring a Tactical Aircraft Moving Map Capability (TAMMAC) program that will provide the standard cockpit digital moving map system for Naval Aviation. The TAMMAC system will be used by a variety of Navy aircraft with differing operational needs and resources and can be tailored to meet aircraft-specific operational requirements. A major design goal of the TAMMAC program is to increase mission effectiveness and situation awareness without further burdening pilot workload. Human factors engineering (HFE) specialists from the government and industry have played an important role in the execution of the TAMMAC program throughout all phases. This paper provides examples of the contributions HFE specialists have made to the program, discusses baseline and planned growth capabilities of the TAMMAC digital map computer, discusses human factors issues regarding these capabilities, and identifies future research needs.
Eye Scan Patterns of Experienced and Novice Pilots during Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Navigation
Authors: Ottati W. Leigh , Hickox Joseph C. , Richter Jeff
Published: January 2012

Electronic 3-D maps are becoming more widely accepted as replacements for traditional maps in the cockpit. As this transition occurs, we must determine how these electronic maps can be most effectively configured for performance and safety. Inherent in the technology available in electronic maps is the ability to customize display features. The challenge to human factors engineers is to design map controls and displays that optimize navigation performance. In this study we compared the eye scanning patterns on different terrain features between experienced and novice pilots during a visual flight rules (VFR) simulation. Implications for pilot training and suggestions for the design of electronic maps are made as a result of these findings.
Age-Related Differences in Navigational Performance within an Immersive Virtual Environment
Authors: McCreary Faith A. , Belz Steven M.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents an empirical investigation of the effects of aging on spatial performance in an immersive virtual environment. Adults (20 to 75 years of age) were taught a route through a six-room virtual house, while wearing a helmet mounted display (HMD) and using a joystick to navigate the virtual environment. Participants viewed the environment under monoscopic conditions with a display resolution of 640 pixels by 480 pixels, a field-of-view (FOV) of 30° H × 22° V, and a scene update rate of 15 Hz. Participants performed tasks designed to assess their spatial knowledge in terms of landmark knowledge, route knowledge, and configuration knowledge metrics. Locomotion efficiency and landmark knowledge did not significantly change with age. As age increased, route and configuration knowledge significantly decreased while the time needed to complete virtual environment spatial tasks increased (p < 0.05). The occurrence of side effects was also recorded; however, no significant differences with respect to age were found. The results are discussed in terms of designing virtual environments for adults.
Is Speech Recognition Technology Robust for Older Populations?
Authors: Kalasky Matthew A. , Czaja Sara J. , Sharit Joseph , Nair Sankaran N.
Published: January 2012

The primary objectives of this study were to investigate the robustness of current speech recognition software for older people and to gather data on the acceptability of this technology for this population. The sample included twenty-four adults from two age groups: young (20 - 29 yrs.) and older (66 - 80 yrs.). The speech recognition software used for the study was a commercially available continuous speech recognizer. Participants used the software to input a passage of text for five trials. Performance measures included reading time and system recognition errors. The results indicated that the reading time of the older adults was significantly longer than that of the younger adults. However, despite this difference there were no age differences in system recognition errors. In addition, the older people found the system easy to use and were comfortable using the technology. These results suggest that current speech recognition software is robust for both younger and older adults and is useable and acceptable by older people.
Evaluating Tactical Real-time Interaction in Multi-agent, Dynamic, Hazardous, High-stake Operations
Authors: Worm Arne
Published: January 2012

We pursued a broad research approach and adopted a combined theorist's and practitioner's perspective to discover novel and effective ways to model and analyze tactical response units and their missions. Experiences from our initial work on military and emergency response mission efficiency analysis made it possible to develop a set of methods and tools for modeling, analysis, and evaluation of tactical forces and their abilities at the lower organizational levels: Mission-critical skills of individual operators and teams, mission resource management, and overall unit performance. We performed case studies, field studies, and experiments using a combined control theory, Naturalistic Decision Making and Cognitive Systems Engineering framework. A composite approach was necessary to fulfill this endeavor. In this paper we outline our work on development of theories and models intended to sustain analysis, evaluation and assessment of military and emergency response units performing complex, high-stake tactical operations. We also tested these concepts in several simulated tactical operations, and finally, validated the concepts in a number of full-scale exercises.
Air Traffic Management: The View from the Ground
Authors: Garland Daniel J. , Mitchell Christine M. , Caisse Steve , Sandusky Loraine , Smith Philip J. , Mitchell Christine M.
Published: January 2012

This panel addresses a component of the air traffic management system that is often neglected: the airline operations control center (AOC) and its potential role in the evolving paradigm of air traffic management for the 21st century. Historically, the dispatch function was essentially limited to route planning, typically well before aircraft departure, and intermittent verbal or text communication between a dispatcher and the flight deck while an aircraft is enroute. Emerging technology, however, has radically changed the role of a modern AOC. Sophisticated weather forecasting models, weather data, and FAA aircraft position data provided by the Collaborative Decision Making program have enabled the creation of state-of-the-art AOC control rooms. With such tools, dispatchers can monitor aircraft, their own or any other tracked by the FAA system, via dynamic and graphical flight following displays. This panel explores the role of the modern AOC and its potential to turn air traffic management from a dyad between the flight deck and various air traffic control entities to a triad in which the AOC plays a major role in ensuring safe and efficient air traffic management.
Improving Performance: Should We Support Individuals or Teams?
Authors: Lenox Terri , Hahn Susan , Lewis Michael , Roth Emilie
Published: January 2012

As part of our research program on integration of intelligent agents with human teams, we analyzed the performance of 34 teams (102 subjects) in a target identification task. Teams were assigned to one of four conditions. The control group received no aiding; each agent condition was focused on an alternative strategy: 1) support individual team members by tracking known information; 2) support team communication by automatically passing information to the relevant member; or 3) support team coordination by identifying responsibility for specific data. We found performance improvements for teams across trials under all conditions. Teams using communication and coordination agents performed better on hard targets, although subjects perceived the coordination agent to be the least valuable for teamwork support. Our findings suggest that direct support of teamwork is more beneficial than aiding individual tasks.
Modeling and Diagnosing Domain Knowledge Using Latent Semantic Indexing
Authors: Freeman Jared T. , Thompson Bryan B. , Cohen Marvin S.
Published: January 2012

Latent Semantic Indexing is a variant of factor analysis that has been used to automate grading of free text, model human vocabulary acquisition, and improve information retrieval. We present new applications of LSI: modeling knowledge of a specific domain problem and diagnosing deficiencies in the knowledge of groups and individuals. LSI and multidimensional scaling were used to represent the arguments made by 31 Navy officers concerning the intent of a suspect aircraft in a high-fidelity simulation. From the MDS dimensions, elements of a mental model of the tactical problem were defined. Officers with greater experience reliably generated more arguments regarding one element of this model than did less experienced officers. The potential for automatically diagnosing the knowledge state of individuals was tested by using LSI and discriminant function analysis to categorize arguments into model elements. Arguments were classified with 86% precision at 88% recall for the element that discriminated on expertise, and 84% precision at 77% recall over all elements. The implications for automating knowledge modeling and diagnosing knowledge are discussed.
Video Analysis for Performance Modeling in Real Environments: Methods and Lessons Learnt
Authors: Mackenzie Colin F. , Xiao Yan
Published: January 2012

Widely available video recording technologies have made the use of video recording a primary choice of data gathering tools in the study of performance in complex and dynamic environments, both real and simulated. This paper describes an 8-year research program based on video recording in a medical domain. Data extraction and analysis techniques used in the program are outlined along with solutions to logistic problems, in the hope that other researchers of performance can draw lessons from our efforts.
Scheduling of Actions and Reliance on Warnings in a Simulated Control Task
Authors: Meyer Joachim , Bitan Yuval , Shinar David , Zmora Ehud
Published: January 2012

Operators of complex systems respond to external signals and events that guide their actions, but they also initiate and schedule the performance of various acts. An experiment was conducted in which the interdependence of scheduling and responding was studied. Participants had to monitor three stations that required different rates of interventions. The experimental conditions differed in the parameters of a warning system that indicated a possible malfunction in a station. The results showed that participants adjusted the frequencies of inspection in accordance with the required frequencies, but the adjustment was much smaller than was actually required. The settings of the warning's sensitivity and criterion threshold affected different aspects of the reliance on the warning system, and a distinction between reliance on warnings and obedience to warnings is suggested. The implications of these findings for the modeling of user actions in complex systems are discussed.
Seven, Plus or Minus Two, is too much to Bear: Three (or Fewer) is the Real Magic Number
Authors: LeCompte Denny C.
Published: January 2012

Miller's 7±2 is an oft-cited but misleading heuristic in user interface design. Miller extracted this rule of thumb by examining data on memory span, among other things. However, memory span procedures measure short-term memory at its upper limits and thereby greatly overestimate humans' ability to easily hold in mind unrelated, linguistic material. Justifications for using a maximum of 3 items as a design heuristic are presented.
Use of Cognitive Work Analysis Across the System Life Cycle: From Requirements to Decommissioning
Authors: Sanderson Penelope , Naikar Neelam , Lintern Gavan , Goss Simon
Published: January 2012

Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA) is a systems-based approach to the analysis, modelling, and design of complex sociotechnical systems that is particularly useful when working with real-time work domains in which operator adaptation and flexibility may be needed (Rasmussen, Pejtersen, & Goodstein, 1994; Vicente, 1999). In this paper we argue that CWA can be used not only for design, with which it is most commonly associated, but also throughout the system life cycle. We present a table that shows the five phases of CWA crossed with different steps and activities in the system life cycle, and in the cells of the table we indicate how a particular phase of CWA informs the system life cycle activity in question. We illustrate this discussion with material from our own work using CWA in air defence environments, such as the use of work domain analysis in the tender evaluation for Australia's AEW&C system. CWA not only leverages and coordinates some previous human engineering techniques, but it also adds important analytic products that have been absent from previous techniques.
Thinking Inside or Outside of the Box: Impact of Digitization on Battle Command
Authors: Leedom Dennis K.
Published: January 2012

As the US Army invests in automation for battle command, it is important to define how this technology impacts (either positively or negatively) on the team and organizational decision-making process. While many studies have taken a traditional task modeling approach to assessing battle command performance, this paper examines performance issues from a different level of systems analysis. Specifically, the paper seeks to identify a number of behavioral characteristics or “proficiencies” that are associated with effective decision-making performance at the team and organizational level. Each of these proficiencies, in turn, suggests a possible measurement taxonomy for assessing the enabling or degrading influence of digitization (combined with leader development, staff training, and organizational design) on decision-making performance in battle command.
E-Commerce by Design
Authors: Lund Arnold M.
Published: January 2012

Designing for electronic commerce poses a new set of challenges for usability professionals. At one level, it is a macroergonomic problem that touches a variety of systems, organizations, processes, interfaces between companies and to customers, and cultural assumptions and social institutions. It is complex even at the interface between customers and companies selling to them as the needs of customers, sales staff, corporate public relations and branding interests, and others need to be balanced against one another. The usability of a given electronic interface for customers is going to be influenced by the access device, a customer's needs (e.g., their shopping goals), past shopping experiences and habits, their experience with the Web, and the shopping context. Unfortunately, the research supporting design is limited. This paper will review the evolution of one e-commerce site, issues that have arisen in the course of that evolution, and approaches to resolving the issues.
The Development of User Models for a Telecommunications Environment
Authors: Bushey Robert , Mauney Jennifer Mitchell , Deelman Tom , Proulx Nicole L.
Published: January 2012

This paper examines a method for the development of user models for a telecommunication computer system used during service and sales negotiations. User models enhance the requirements gathering phase of system design by capturing the diversity of the user population and capitalizing on the variety of distinguishable and categorical strategies that affect performance. The CDM method (Categorizing, Describing, and Modeling method) was developed as a technique to generate user models. In the CDM method, the user population is first categorized into a reasonable number of groups. Next, the behaviors for each group are described and are then qualitatively and quantitatively modeled. These models are subsequently used during the system design and operational process to optimize performance for all users. This paper is the second in a series designed to apply the CDM method and focuses on the latter sections of the CDM method, namely describing and modeling groups of users.
Input Rates and User Preference for Three Small-Screen Input Methods: Standard Keyboard, Predictive Keyboard, and Handwriting
Authors: Lewis James R.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to compare three input methods (standard keyboard, predictive keyboard, and perfect handwriting recognition) considering user input rates and preferences. Six participants used all three input methods to enter both normal text and addresses. Participants indicated that they preferred to use the standard keyboard. The average input rate for handwriting was fastest, but also much more variable than the other methods. Despite its speed, participants generally found it difficult to write comfortably and legibly on the small (35times115 mm) display. The input rate for the standard keyboard was more than twice the input rate for the predictive keyboard. These results suggest that, for small devices, neither handwriting recognition nor predictive keyboards would effectively replace the standard keyboard layout. Even with perfect handwriting recognition, users seem to prefer tapping on a small standard keyboard unless the device's hardware design allows comfortable handwriting input.
Measuring Customer Perceptions on Product Usability: Development of Image and Impression Attributes of Consumer Electronic Products
Authors: Yun Myung Hwan , Han Sung H. , Kim Kwang Jae , Han Soomee
Published: January 2012

The image and impression characteristics of the typical home electronic products were investigated by a consumer survey. A total of 60 subjects evaluated 36 audio/video electronic products on 25 different image attributes such as conceptual image, luxuriousness, color perception and magnificence. The result was compared with 52 design variables predetermined to be related to the customer's perception of the product. The results showed that the image and impression characteristics of the products are closely related to the human interface specifications as well as the overall dimension of the products. Design variables such as texture, use of surface curvature, surface treatment, operating sound, and control response ratio were perceived as important by the customers. This study also suggested a series of statistical process for selecting and screening the critical design variables that are closely related to the customer's impression of a product.
Hands-on Human Factors and Ergonomics Education
Authors: Jones Dennis R.
Published: January 2012

Teaching an introductory course in Human Factors and Ergonomics presents a number of opportunities to have the students participate in a variety of hands-on labs and projects. The students participate in a variety on hands-on activities that provide a range of human factors and ergonomic experiences. Having the students select a project that is of interest to them, and allowing them to actively participate in that project is essential to the educational experience. Since this is an introductory course the sophomore engineering students may not initially have the a clear understanding of what human factors and ergonomics are. Furthermore each student brings with them different levels of maturity, interest, and motivation. The challenge is to make course materials accessible to all students, and to be responsive to individuals who are having difficulty integrating the new material without boring others. I believe that learning can and should be fun, and that students who are active participants learn more than those who are passive.
Placement Opportunities for Human Factors Engineering and Ergonomics Professionals in Industry, Government/Military and Consulting Positions
Authors: Cummings-Hill Mark A. , Means C. Don , Harrison Lisa , Moroney William F.
Published: January 2012

During the period from November 1997 through September 1998, the Placement Service of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society distributed announcements describing 249 new positions available for human factors engineers and ergonomics professionals. This paper describes placement opportunities for HFE and ergonomics professionals in industry, government /military and consulting positions (N=205). The attributes of the position descriptions examined include: degree requirements, industrial sector, areas of expertise, required work experience, salary, geographic location, job description and skills required. Sixty percent of the positions describe the masters degree as the minimum requirement. The area of expertise most frequently requested (67.8%) was HCI, with test and evaluation (specifically usability testing) being specified for 48.3% of the positions. Consulting, computer software, computer hardware and aviation/aerospace were the four leading industries offering positions. The geographical areas with the most jobs were the California and the Northeast. The most frequently cited (27%) primary area of responsibility was software design.
Is there Research off the Tenure Track?
Authors: Paley Michael J. , MacMillan Jean
Published: January 2012

Students often enroll in graduate degree programs because of a desire to conduct research in their field of interest. Through coursework and research projects they are exposed to statistical methods, experimental designs, and a research literature upon which to base future hypotheses. For those aiming to maintain an active research career, academia is often presented as the natural choice. It is important to stress, however, that many non-academic positions offer ample opportunities to conduct quality research. The intention of this panel, comprised of researchers from academia, government, industry, and consulting, is to provide an overview of various pathways to a research career and discuss the pros and cons of these options. In doing so, we hope to dispel a common misconception that academia is the only place in which to actively develop a research program. We also hope to provide students and recent graduates with an opportunity to make well informed decisions with respect to a research career path.
Posture and Web Browsing: An Observational Study
Authors: Andre Anthony D. , English Jeffrey D.
Published: January 2012

This study was designed to identify the postures assumed by Web users and to compare these postures to those assumed during conventional text-entry tasks. Twenty-four participants were observed while performing various Web and typing tasks on a standard computer workstation. Across all postural measures, there were many instances where Web browsing postures differed in kind or frequency from typing postures. Further, there were some postural variances attributed to the different requirements of the three Web tasks (searching vs. learning vs. browsing). Overall, many postures were observed during the course of Web browsing that can be classified as detrimental towards the development of cumulative trauma disorders (CTD). Based on the results of this study, we provide guidelines for improving the posture of Web users.
Warnings and Risk Taking in the Allocation of Responsibility for Consumer Product Safety
Authors: Meingast Melissa E. , Laughery Kenneth R. , Laughery Brenda R. , Lovvoll David R.
Published: January 2012

This study explored how product users' risk taking characteristics and the presence or absence of a warning influenced allocation of responsibility for accidents during consumer product use. Sixty-three subjects were shown eight scenarios describing a product accident and injury. The scenarios described a litigation context that implicated the consumer as a high or low risk taker. Subjects allocated accident responsibility between the manufacturer, retailer, and consumer (user). Two variables were manipulated; descriptions of users' prior risk taking behaviors, and presence or absence of a warning. A warning effect was found; mean allocation to manufacturers was 20% and 60% with and without warnings, and 74% and 31% to consumers with and without warnings. High risk takers received more responsibility (85%) than low risk takers (65%) when warnings were present; however, in the no-warning condition the difference between allocations made to high and low risk takers was greatly reduced (28% and 35% respectively).
Comparison of Two Batteries for Fitness-for-Duty Testing
Authors: Kennedy Robert S. , Jones Marshall B. , Drexler Julie M. , Rugotzke Gene G. , Compton Daniel E.
Published: January 2012

Many businesses seek to deter impairment due to alcohol and other drugs (AOD's) on the job and feel a need to detect impaired performance due to AOD's directly, rather than by inference from chemical testing. Industry requirements for a performance test to be used in a fitness-for-duty program are that the test have very high specificity and sufficient sensitivity to detect many impaired workers much of the time. To determine if a newly developed computerized temporal acuity test battery had the requisite specificity and sensitivities comparable to those previously obtained with a computerized cognitive performance test battery, performance on the two test batteries was assessed before and after the administration of alcohol. Results indicated that the temporal factors tests did not exhibit sufficient specificity to satisfy industry requirements, however the cognitive tests exhibited high sensitivity and adequate specificity.
Individual Differences in Stress Response and Working Memory
Authors: Matthews Gerald , Campbell Sian E.
Published: January 2012

Understanding how stress and performance are reciprocally linked may contribute to alleviating operator stress. A study of individual differences in stress and working memory is reported. 112 participants performed a demanding working memory task on four occasions. Subjective stress state was assessed with the Dundee Stress State Questionnaire (DSSQ: Matthews et al., 1998). The task elicited changes in subjective state that included increased distress, although the magnitude of subjective stress responses tended to decrease over time. Working memory tasks may be intrinsically stressful, although operators are able to adapt to task demands to some extent. Several DSSQ scales correlated with performance on the task. Control and confidence was associated with a general facilitation of performance on all four days of testing. Energetic arousal also tended to facilitate performance, but the effect was contingent on task parameters, consistent with attentional resource theory. The data indicate which dimensions of stress should be targeted for intervention in real-world applications.
Individual Differences in Compliance with Workplace Lifting Training
Authors: Resnick Marc L. , Uceta Fernando , Ortiz Julio
Published: January 2012

In industries such as manufacturing, warehousing, and transportation, worker safety is often compromised when workers do not use safe lifting methods. However, the track record of training programs that provide information about safe lifting methods is mixed. Individual compliance with workplace lifting training can vary greatly. Many studies have shown that even in programs that lead to high retention of the trained information, workers often do not use the safe methods when they return to their jobs. This study evaluated the effects of several individual characteristics that were hypothesized to affect compliance. Demographic, anthropometric and personality characteristics were related to compliance with a trained safe lifting method. The implications for these differences on future training research are discussed.