Evaluating a digital ship design tool prototype: Designers' perceptions of novel ergonomics software
Journal article, 2017
Computer-aided solutions are essential for naval architects to manage and optimize technical complexities when developing a ship's design. Although there are an array of software solutions aimed to optimize the human element in design, practical ergonomics methodologies and technological solutions have struggled to gain widespread application in ship design processes. This paper explores how a new ergonomics technology is perceived by naval architecture students using a mixed-methods framework. Thirteen Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering Masters students participated in the study. Overall, results found participants perceived the software and its embedded ergonomics tools to benefit their design work, increasing their empathy and ability to understand the work environment and work demands end-users face. However, participant's questioned if ergonomics could be practically and efficiently implemented under real-world project constraints. This revealed underlying social biases and a fundamental lack of understanding in engineering postgraduate students regarding applied ergonomics in naval architecture. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
participatory
usability
acceptance
user
product development
ergonomics
scale engineering design
documentation
Naval architecture
integrating ergonomics
psychometric evaluation
Participatory design
New technology adoption
Engineering
experience
technology
Psychology
Author
Steven Mallam
Chalmers, Shipping and Marine Technology, Nautical Studies
Monica Lundh
Chalmers, Shipping and Marine Technology, Nautical Studies
Scott MacKinnon
Chalmers, Shipping and Marine Technology, Nautical Studies
Applied Ergonomics
0003-6870 (ISSN) 1872-9126 (eISSN)
Vol. 59 19-26Roots
Basic sciences
Subject Categories
Marine Engineering
DOI
10.1016/j.apergo.2016.08.026