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

Abstract

AbstractCognitive work analysis (CWA) is a systems‐based framework for analyzing complex sociotechnical systems; however, its ability to directly inform design has been questioned. The Cognitive Work Analysis Design Toolkit (CWA‐DT) was developed to address this gap. This study describes the development, application, and evolution of the CWA‐DT and examines the extent to which it provides a useful approach to design. The evaluation draws upon five case‐study applications. In three applications, involving the design of public transport ticketing systems, railway level crossing environments and road intersections, the toolkit was used in conjunction with CWA. In addition, we present two case studies where the CWA‐DT was used with other systems‐based analysis frameworks (for the design of incident prevention strategies for led outdoor activities and systemic interventions to improve road safety) to illustrate the flexibility of the toolkit. Based on feedback from participants involved in CWA‐DT design processes, it is concluded that it provides a useful approach for translating human factors analyses into design concepts. Additional applications and adaptations of the approach are encouraged.