ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that there is much to recommend the use of systems engineering tools when they suit the purpose of ergonomists. It is noted that task modelling – in its various forms of task allocation, task definition, workflow analysis – is a common and vitally important component of the systems engineer and ergonomist's job. The safety and ilities function assess the constraints and demands of their particular area and levy those as requirements on systems engineering. The role and activities of the systems engineering function and those of the ergonomists bear a striking resemblance. If ergonomics is part of the systems engineering function, then it needs to be able to communicate successfully with the other members of the team. Systems engineering has been very vigorous in defining and developing tools and methods for modelling systems, and there is a good level of maturity and standardisation in the approaches.
