From Diagnosis and Recommendation to a Formative Intervention: Contributions of the Change Laboratory

Abstract

Ergonomic Work Analysis is important methodology for understanding the present situations and support recommendations for transforming work. However, more emphasis to the historical analysis of the activity system is needed for understanding the origin of problems so that expansive solutions can be designed. This article shows how a historical analysis can be used to redesign the relationship between two organizations, by seeking to solve problems of collaboration between them. This paper used the data and results obtained from a Change Laboratory (CL) intervention, which took place in the Health Center & School, which is part of a Faculty of Public Health (São Paulo University) in the State of São Paulo, Brazil, in 2015. The double stimulation strategy and tools used during the CL sessions, which served as first and second stimuli and produced concrete results and learning were revisited. A timeline was collectively constructed, helping to visualize the historical events involved and how they contributed to the emergence of contradictions, which led to the crisis in the relationship between the two institutions in their actual activity. The contradictions were related to changes in curricula, isolation of the service from the Unified Health System, an emphasis on research, and financial difficulties at university. Both the CL participants and researchers expanded the way in which they understood the origin of the conflicts faced in the activity and its possible solutions. They were able to visualize alternatives for the future. The historical analysis is a powerful tool for redesigning the future and to ensure interventions.