Anchoring autonomy: understanding seafarers’ interaction with energy efficiency decision support systems for route planning and the role of basic psychological needs

Abstract

Onboard Decision Support Systems (DSS) for energy-efficient maritime route planning are key for global carbon reduction and sustainable transportation goals. Research indicates seafarers’ fuel reduction behaviors are hindered by goal conflicts and workload, affecting motivation and efficient use of automated systems. We studied seafarers’ (N = 22) interactions with a DSS in a high-fidelity bridge simulator, assessing Usability, User Experience, Workload, Basic Psychological Need (BPN) fulfillment, and conducted interviews. Positive system evaluations, particularly hedonic User Experience, contrasted with perceived reduced autonomy using the DSS. Seafarers often requested autonomy-enhancing features (e.g., route editing). Our findings underline the importance of BPNs, especially autonomy, in human-centered technology for maritime transportation, contributing to environmental and efficiency goals.