Human Factors Management in Systems Acquisition: Perspectives on an Applied Research and Development Success Story

Abstract

The role played by human factors engineering in the research and development of complex weapons systems is critical to satisfactory operational performance of the system. The role of the human factors engineering manager is no less critical; this individual is not only charged with designing, implementing and reviewing the human factors engineering effort, but also providing leadership in resolving conflicts, building concensus, and championing unpopular positions. This paper chronicles the impact of the human factors engineering program in a moderately-large R & D. The details of the project are analyzed using the an organizational model that focuses on the interactions among the organizational, technical and political logics prevalent at the time. Using this approach, several insights regarding the role of the HFE manager are revealed, and some guidelines for managing human factors engineering research and development programs are offered.

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