Achieving impact through human factors research

Abstract

Achieving impact – change in the real world – through human factors research involves developing the right theoretical and conceptual models that give leverage over the problem space, and developing appropriate modes of intervention. Change and development in complex operational systems create a need for new theoretical concepts that can integrate concepts of system, culture, sensemaking and action. Such concepts can then support new interventions to understand and manage system risk proactively, to design systems to operate effectively, and to intervene to change organisations with a higher degree of success. The aim of this review is to consider examples of such initiatives in areas such as risk assessment and operational design and examine whether they demonstrate the potential for achieving impact.