Communication, Coordination, and Integration of Cognitive Work Analysis Outputs

Abstract

Cognitive Work Analysis is widely considered to offer a strong method for analysing domains that are not rigidly defined; where novel problem solving and unanticipated factors demand flexibility in operator performance. However, CWA is also thought to be unwieldy and time consuming. Recent work conducted on tight budgets has necessitated the development of methods to improve the coordination, integration and communication of work between CWA analysts. In particular, the use of Critical Decision Method for generating data, the use of exemplars for improving analysis validity and reliability, and the animation of outputs for communication purposes, have proven key in developing CWA-based design recommendations quickly and cost-effectively. This paper describes these efforts and provides some examples of the outputs.

A sociotechnical design toolkit for bridging the gap between systems‐based analyses and system design

“…">Efficiency (Definition: Process is efficient and/or cost effective): Several authors have noted the length of time required to apply the CWA framework (e.g., Sanderson, ; Vicente; ). It has a reputation for a being time consuming and resource intensive analysis approach (Rehak, Lamoureux, & Bos, ). In relation to design, researchers have noted a need to improve efficiency in the design process (Hajdukiewicz & Burns, ) and for HFE design processes generally to be practical and cost effective (Gualtieri, Szymczak, & Elm, ).…”

Using cognitive work analysis to explore activity allocation within military domains

“…According to Rehak et al (2006) it is through a process of viewing the same domain in a variety of ways that many design innovations arise.…”

Human factors methods to design safer mobile mining equipment

“…This was done using the information recorded in the CDM, especially the deepening probes, and expert judgement. The use of expert judgement is the established method with the Decision Ladder (Jenkins and Salmon, 2009) which has some emerging evidence of inter-rater reliability (Rehak, Lamoureux et al, 2006). In this study, the scope was limited to trialling the representation of the method to determine if it appeared to aid design decisions.…”