Task analysis

Each Human Factors contribution starts with a task analysis. This step is required to get information about how the human operators perform their tasks. Typical outcomes of a task analysis are:

• task allocation: how the work is divided over the jobs
• physical and mental workload
• walking routes
• communication lines
• work relations between operators
• workplace requirements
• field-of-vision requirements
• User Interface requirements
• crew preferences, concerns and ideas

For the best results, a task analysis should take place in a real work situation, preferable on a comparable vessel. Usually the analysis is based on interviews and observations, but more formal methods like a HTA (Hierarchical Task Analysis) are also possible.
If a real work situation is not available, onshore walk-through / talk-through sessions with crew members can be a good alternative.
A common misconception is that task analysis information is part of the standard expertise of a shipyard: be noted that most yard engineers have no actual sailing experience and are often not allowed to directly interact with crew members.