Fitting methods to paradigms: are ergonomics methods fit for systems thinking?

Paul M Salmon; Guy H Walker; Gemma J M Read; Natassia Goode; Neville A Stanton

doi:10.1080/00140139.2015.1103385

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Fitting methods to paradigms: are ergonomics methods fit for systems thinking?

Journal article

Peer reviewed

Fitting methods to paradigms: are ergonomics methods fit for systems thinking?

Paul M Salmon, Guy H Walker, Gemma J M Read, Natassia Goode and Neville A Stanton

Ergonomics, Vol.60(2), pp.194-205

2017

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00140139.2015.1103385

PMID: 26799501

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Abstract

ergonomics tools and methods

methods and approaches

system performance

complex systems

system performance modelling

sociotechnical systems

organisational ergonomics

systems thinking

The issues being tackled within ergonomics problem spaces are shifting. Although existing paradigms appear relevant for modern day systems, it is worth questioning whether our methods are. This paper asks whether the complexities of systems thinking, a currently ubiquitous ergonomics paradigm, are outpacing the capabilities of our methodological toolkit. This is achieved through examining the contemporary ergonomics problem space and the extent to which ergonomics methods can meet the challenges posed. Specifically, five key areas within the ergonomics paradigm of systems thinking are focused on: normal performance as a cause of accidents, accident prediction, system migration, systems concepts and ergonomics in design. The methods available for pursuing each line of inquiry are discussed, along with their ability to respond to key requirements. In doing so, a series of new methodological requirements and capabilities are identified. It is argued that further methodological development is required to provide researchers and practitioners with appropriate tools to explore both contemporary and future problems.

Details

Title: Fitting methods to paradigms: are ergonomics methods fit for systems thinking?
Authors: Paul M Salmon (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Arts, Business and Law
Guy H Walker (Author) - Heriot-Watt University, United Kingdom
Gemma J M Read (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Arts, Business and Law
Natassia Goode (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Arts, Business and Law
Neville A Stanton (Author) - University of Southampton, United Kingdom
Publication details: Ergonomics, Vol.60(2), pp.194-205
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
Date published: 2017
DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2015.1103385
ISSN: 0014-0139
PMID: 26799501
Grants: A new complex systems approach to road trauma: Applying systems thinking to the fatal five, FT140100681, Australian Research Council (Australia, Canberra) - ARC
Organisation Unit: Centre for Human Factors and Systems Science; School of Health - Psychology; School of Law and Society
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99449772402621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration; International collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Engineering, Industrial; Ergonomics; Psychology; Psychology, Applied

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