Computer assistance is being introduced into a very wide range of human tasks and functions, and it would be expected that the future will see more widespread applications of computer assistance to certification. The processes followed in human factors certification would be included in this trend. Not only have the processes for human factors certification to be defined, but there has to be parallel consideration of how the introduction of appropriate forms of computer assistance into them could help to standardize them and to make them more efficient. The problem of proving that complex and coupled systems are safe to operate is with us now. It will not recede as a problem but become ever more urgent until it has been solved.
Certification offers an approach to the independent validation of systems.
The inclusion of human factors requirements in certification processes could confirm that human factors requirements had been met, ahead of the introduction of the system for operational use. The potential benefits in terms of safety, efficiency, acceptability, and public accountability seem highly significant. The successful initial workshop on human factors and certification has provided a promising start and encouraging directions for future progress. The opinions expressed are solely the authors' and do not necessarily reflect those of the sponsors. References Federal Aviation Administration.