The Development of Sammie for Computer Aided Work Place and Work Task Design

Abstract

Computer assistance with the design and evaluation of work places and work tasks is relatively new. However, a variety of approaches and models have been used by different workers and the work has moved beyond testing feasibility towards providing designers with a practical tool.

This paper traces the development of SAMMIE and associated software and examines the lessons that this holds for future developments. The original development which started in 1967 consisted of a man model, a work place modelling system and a way to describe and evaluate work tasks. The restructured SAMMIE system places greater emphasis on usability and the structuring of the software. The decisions involved in the modelling, the facilities included in the model and the implications for data collection, presentation and accessibility are examined in the light of case studies performed and proposed design uses.