CTW special issue on human-centred design in automotive systems

Abstract

The problem of human centred design and more in general the interaction of humans with machines in design processes is well known and debated. The inclusion of human factors concepts and methods within the design procedure is nowadays regulated by international standards that are over 10-years-old. Yet, an unquestionable and factual application of human factors at design level remains far from reality. The issues associated with human factors (HF) are recognised and well defined, the expertise and number of specialists in the domain are expanding, the methods are becoming more and more precise and specific for different types of applications, such as for example training, accident investigation, safety assessment, and naturally design. However, the feeling is that HF methods are not a fully understood and accepted within the process or procedure of design. One of the possible reasons of the current situation is the complexity that a consistent application of HF methods requires in order to be really effective. Moreover, this application represents a cost that in too many cases remains an initial burden on the development of systems and not all industries are prepared to sustain. Obviously, there is a return in terms of cost when a system is ‘‘well designed’’ and integrated with respect to HF, but this benefit becomes manifest only after the initial process of design and prototyping. In addition, two crucial themes are often associated with the complexity of HF methods. These are: the amount of uncertainty and the open questions that still exist with respect to any HF application. Both issues are very important. However, they are false problems and baseless arguments in a scientific environment for the following reasons: 1. Uncertainty issue