Task analysis applications

Task analysis is a fundamental methodology in the assessment and reduction of human error. A very wide variety of different task analysis methods exist, and it would be impracticable to describe all these techniques in this chapter. Instead, the intention is to describe representative methodologies applicable to different types of task. Techniques that have actually been applied in the CPI will be emphasized. An extended review of task analysis techniques is available in Kirwan and Ainsworth (1993). 

The IMAS technique described above is useful, in that it addresses aspects of operational skills, that is, diagnostic and problem solving abilities, that are not covered by other techniques. To that extent it can be regarded as a method of cognitive task analysis. It is not essential to use a computer program to obtain useful results. The mental models produced by IMAS can be elicited by pencil and paper methods. Nevertheless interpretation and application of the results require some expertise. 

Because the staff were consulted extensively during the application of task analysis and error analysis methods, the information presented on the graphic display in Figure 7.17 corresponds with their own information needs. 

Real-time and data-dependent software [61] has also become an essential component of qualitative analysis applications such as metabolite identification [62] and quantitative analysis such as PK screening [63], Specialized software packages are able to perform tasks such as molecular weight confirmation, metabolite identification, peak integration, and calibration regression. 

The human inspection models of visual search and human decision making were shown to be particularly applicable leading to a task analytic framework using hierarchical task analysis (HTA). In this way, human factors knowledge could be applied systematically to observed FPI processes. Visits were made to several engine repair facilities owned by major air carriers and engine manufac-... 

In the past 15 years, the use of microfluidic devices for chemical analysis has increased tremendously. Indeed, a broad range of chromatographic and electrophoretic separation methods have been implemented in microchips. However, for widespread utilization of microfabricated devices in analysis applications, particularly in the field of proteomics, further efforts are needed to develop simple fabrication techniques that achieve functional integration of multiple tasks in a single device. " In this section, we describe the fabrication of microdevices using sacrificial materials and discuss some of the advantages of this approach over conventional microfabrication methods. 

In Figure 79.1, a task analysis at both the application and interaction levels in conducted. The dashed line between the interaction task and the task analysis is meant to indicate that this can only be accomplished if there is an existing product to analyze. In some cases another similar product or product analogue may be useful to analyze. 

The applied purpose of the task analysis has the greatest impact on what type of data are needed. Applications of task analysis vary greatly and include decisions that may or may not involve machines. 

These applications of task analysis reduce to answering the following types of questions ... 

FIGURE 81.1 The user s purpose is served by the application task, which is accomplished through the interaction task. 81.4.1.5 Task Analysis, Allocation, and Modeling... 

Variables Uses and Applications of Task Analysis Future Developments Defining Terms References Further Information... 

The ERM is a step toward the goal of achieving an application-independent approach to modeling any human-task interface. It provides a systematic and generalizable (across all subsystem types) means of identifying performance measures that characterize human subsystems, as well as a consistent basis for performance measurement definition (and task analysis). It has also served to stimulate focus on a standardized, distinct set of variables, which facilitates clear communication of an individual s status among professionals. 

Task data are applicable in all phases and iterations of product development. Different types of task data can be collected as the fidelity of system prototypes progresses and operational systems become available. These differences are apparent by examining three points in the system engineering process at which task analysis is of particular utility. 

In task analysis, it is common practice to distinguish between stress and strain. However, these terms are sometimes used interchangeably and confusedly. In this chapter, stress refers to a condition that may lead to an adverse effect on the body, whereas strain refers to the effect of stress on the body. For example, working at a computer job in dim lighting often leads to headaches. The dim lighting is considered the stress, and the headache is the strain. The term stressor is also widely used as a synonym for stress. Strain has often been wrongly called stress. These terms must be clearly defined to determine which factors are causative ones (stresses) and which are consequences (strains). Stress is determined by task demands, while strain is determined by the amount of physical resources expended beyond some tolerable level, defined by the person s resource capacities. The stress-strain principle is pivotal to task analysis when one is concerned with errors, cumulative traumas, and injuries in the workplace and is applicable to task situations where task demands are likely to exceed human resource capacities. 

Title I of the Americans with DisabUity Act (ADA, 1990) prohibits discrimination with regard to any aspect of the employment process. Thus, the development of preplacement tests has been impeded by the possibility of discrimination against individuals based on gender, age, or medical condition. The ADA requires physical tests to simulate the essential functions of the task. In addition, one must be aware of reasonable accommodations, such as lifting aids, that may make an otherwise infeasible task possible for a disabled applicant to perform. Healthcare providers who perform physical examinations and provide recommendations for job apphcants must consider the rights of disabled applicants. It is extremely crucial to quantify the specific physical requirements of the job to be performed and to examine an applicant s capabilities to perform those specific tasks, taking into account any reasonable accommodations that may be provided. Hence, task analysis and functional capacity assessment are truly intertwined. 

The main aspects of the fractal analysis application for the description of the behavior of macromolecular coils in the diluted solution are also considered to emphasize the intercommunication of the classical and fractal (structural) characteristics of macromolecular coils. Developed in the physical chemistry of polymer solutions, the basic ideas are the basis of oiuimderstanding of the peculiar properties of polymers. Such an approach allows one to receive the direct correlations stmcture-propeities , which is the main task of any physical domain including the physical chemistry of polymer solutiorrs and polymers synthesis. 

The second part of the work concerns task analysis. It aims first at recognizing the different variables observed by the operator in order to perform supervisory tasks. To carry out this analysis, it is necessary to study the operator s activities in the control room in order to identify his needs and the different problem solving strategies he can use [6]. This analysis must also emphasize the tetiqxnal constraints associated with performing supervisory task. So, the first step, which includes a study of the process and an analysis of the supervisory task constitutes a preliminary work meant to get the interface designer used in the different aspects of the process application, and lead him to defining the functionalities of the interface which needs to be developed. 

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