ABSTRACT
In any form of research, when we want to understand, analyse, and/or describe something in detail, we use structured and valid approaches to collect data. Human Factors is no different; once a Human Factors analysis has been scoped in terms of aims and expected outcomes (i.e., defining hypotheses and identifying research questions that the analysis is intended to answer) researchers use structured data collection methods to collect valid data regarding the system, activity, personnel, or device that the analysis is focused upon. This data is then used to inform the impending Human Factors analyses. The importance of reliable and valid data collection methods is therefore manifest; they are the cornerstone of any Human Factors analysis effort and, in addition to providing significant insights into the area of study themselves, provide the input data for the range of different methods that Human Factors researchers use.
