Integrating human factors and systems engineering

Traditionally, most systems engineering solutions have concentrated on the complex technical problems. However, there has been a less rigorous approach to the 'softer' disciplines required to address the human aspects and operational environment of the system. As a result, this has lead to solutions which fail to acknowledge the central role of users in ensuring that the goals of a system are met, and often leads to security or safety 'incidents'. Praxis Critical Systems experience has shown that business, safety and security risk can be reduced significantly by considering the human as an essential part of the system as early as possible. The problem is one of integration - how do we modify our existing processes? This paper will assert that small improvements can be made for minimal cost. We draw on our wide practical experience from projects in a variety of markets to demonstrate that adopting a pragmatic approach will ensure that benefits can be seen to be achieved.