Human factors in software projects for complex industrial processes

Abstract

Process industry has a need to increase product quality while also reducing operating costs and environmental footprint. However, a plant comprises of a complex set of dynamic processes, as well as human operators that control the processes. The best improvement is achieved by an extensive intervention of both aspects. In practice, human factor aspects have often a marginal role in carrying out a technical project. This has not been the case in the present, EU-funded project. The systematic inclusion of human factors perspective requires parallel and collaborative proceeding of technical development and human factors. The flexible approach is central as the human matters not only affects technical development but is also involved with the usage context of the new technical solution.