Quantum ergonomics: shifting the paradigm of the systems agenda. Issue 2 (1st February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Walker, Guy H.; Salmon, Paul M.; Bedinger, Melissa; Stanton, Neville A.
• Is Part Of: Ergonomics. Volume 60:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 157
• Page End: 166
• Publication Date: 2017-02-01
• Subjects: Paradigms -- systems thinking -- big data -- internet of things; Human engineering -- Periodicals; Cybernetics -- Periodicals; Industrial management -- Periodicals; Ergonomie -- Périodiques; Cybernétique -- Périodiques; Gestion d'entreprise -- Périodiques; 620.8205
• DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2016.1231840
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0014-0139

Abstract

Abstract: A paradigm is an accepted world view. If we do not continually question our paradigm then wider trends and movements will overtake the discipline leaving it ill adapted to future challenges. This Special Issue is an opportunity to keep systems thinking at the forefront of ergonomics theory and practice. Systems thinking prompts us to ask whether ergonomics, as a discipline, has been too timid? Too preoccupied with the resolution of immediate problems with industrial-age methods when, approaching fast, are developments which could render these operating assumptions an irrelevance. Practical case studies are presented to show how abstract systems problems can be tackled head-on to deliver highly innovative and cost-effective insights. The strategic direction of the discipline foregrounds high-quality systems problems. These are something the discipline is well able to respond to provided that the appropriate operating paradigms are selected. Practitioner Summary: High-quality systems problems are the future of the discipline. How do we convert obtuse sounding systems concepts into practical interventions? In this paper, the essence of systems thinking is distilled and practical case studies used to demonstrate the benefits of this new paradigm.