ABSTRACT
Allocation of functions is concerned with decisions regarding what agent, human or machine, or combination of agents will carry out individual functions in a system. It is regarded by ergonomics/human factors academics as a core activity in the ergonomics design process and university programs in human factors/ergonomics that do not encompass the topic would quite rightly be regarded as less than ideal. However, the importance attached to the topic in the classroom is not always reflected in the workplace. Reported experience tells us that that allocation of functions is not addressed as often as theory would suggest except in situations where regulatory requirements must be met and safety is paramount.
