Combining task analysis into the design process in order to ensure compatibility between operating personnel and their equipment

The aim of this paper is to introduce a model for incorporating task analysis into the system design process from day one, right through to checking human performance once the system is running. It will demonstrate how information gained early in the system concept stage can be expanded as the design progresses which will ensure that task analysis is a cost effective process. If the full task analysis procedure is followed through all phases of a system's life cycle, quality assurance of personnel performance can be provided with fully documented evidence. Task analysis makes explicit that which many people may already be considering implicitly and hence decisions and assessments can be audited. (author)