Large technology-based systems and the need for paradigm shift

Abstract

Large, complex, tightly coupled person-machine and sociotechnical systems impose increasing demands on designers and users. A number of theoretical and design considerations are reviewed. The human factors and ergonomics approaches illustrate many of the difficulties associated with large technology-based systems in general. American approaches to design may differ from those of the Europeans and the Japanese. Several recent failures of complex systems are briefly reviewed in terms of person-generated contributions to failure that transcend customary design considerations. Advanced computer technologies, applied to manage complexity, can constrain and channel human cognition. Artificial intelligence and expert systems are reviewed in this context. Recent developments in systems theory suggest further the inadequacy of existing approaches and the fundamental need for paradigm shift. Evolutionary ergonomics illustrates an integrated design/operations concept that reflects an emergent new paradigm better fitted to the reality of complex technology-based systems.