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What we do:
HSI® Human Factors Consultants offer software modelling of human performance:
- To compare development options.
- To define procurement needs or strategies.
- To facilitate Human Systems Integration for different human charactestics such as lifting strength and endurance, workspace layout and body size.
Computer models provide a realistic, low cost estimate of the likely benefits of different technology or Human System Integration options - before going to the cost of a prototype, investing in procurement, or making expensive modifications. Using computer models, you can compare different interface design and automation options, assess the impact of anticipated stressors on task or system performance, analyse safety issues, estimate probability of human error or the consequences of reducing team size, and much more.
Our consultants can offer several types of Human Factors modelling software.
- Comprehensive Software Modelling Environments
(IPME (Integrated Performance Modelling Environment), Microsaint, Hardman)
- Human Systems Integration of single human characteristics
(anthropometric, biomechanical, physiological, thermal, sensory and cognitive)
How we do this:
One human performance software modelling environment is IPME (Integrated Performance Modelling Environment) developed by Micro Analysis and Design (M.A.A.D.) and used by the U.S., Canadian, and British military - among others.
IPME models decisions and actions by individuals and teams and their patterns of information exchange. A very simple decision action sequence looks like this. |
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| IPME can model task durations and the characteristics of the individuals performing the task such as training level and skill. IPME also models performance shaping factors such as fatigue and training, and environmental factors such as lighting and noise.
The IPME model generates measures of performance such as task duration, success or failure; user workload; task bottlenecks; and resource usage.
Successful human performance modeling requires several steps.
- Problem and Fidelity Definition: Modelling for its own sake can become costly and time consuming. This makes careful definition of modelling goals and scope a priority. HSI® Human Factors consultants will determine the level of fidelity required, and limit the scope of the model to key questions.
- Systematic Analysis: Accurate task data based on representative scenarios is needed to represent the sequence(s) of decisions and actions, and the performance measures of interest.
- Model Validation: To validate the model Subject Matter Experts may review it or we may obtain real task data to compare with the model's output.
- Model Execution: This is done many times to generate measures of performance to answer the defined questions. A second version of the model may be developed and run, for example, to compare a different design.
Why we do this:
HSI® consultants use human performance models to let the client:
- Assess new technology options at less cost than a prototype.
- Make better choices before investing in development or procurement.
- Estimate work load and task outcomes without live trials.
- Reduce dependence on live trials.
- Reduce the risks to project budgets and timelines
- Assess human performance issues of interest.
- Manipulate variables of interest with greater ease and at lower cost.
- Obtain numerical data to compare against specifications and standards.
CLICK here to view examples of our work in Human Performance Modelling. |
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| * Source: Reproduced with the permission of National Defence and the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 2005. |
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