Human Factors Topic: WORKSTATION

What is the impact of a workstation on performance?Workstation

The reduction in the cost of monitors has resulted in a rapid growth of pixels per operator in the control room. The result is increasing footprints for consoles and increased use of large screen monitors. Millions of dollars are being spent to upgrade and build new control centers without questioning whether more CRTs are really needed and their impact on operator performance.

The Center is focusing the initial research in this area on the use of large screen monitors. What is their impact on performance and how can they be used most effectively?

KEY QUESTIONS/ISSUES FACING INDUSTRY TODAY

  • Is there a better way to design operating consoles?
  • How do windows and screen size impact display design?
  • How should information be split over multiple screens?
  • How should large screen monitors be used effectively?

Do you have a question or hot button issue that isn’t on our list?
We’d like to hear from you so send us an email with your concerns and suggestions.

MORE INFORMATION

  • Review the Completed Projects and Current Work of the Center on ways to enhance operator performance. Members can access project reports in the Members-Only Section.
  • Big and Small: Display Technologies Transform Control Rooms
    Author: Terry Costlow
    Publication: Automation World, September 18, 2015, Access Article
  • Changing Workforce Drives Control Room Modernization
    Author: Grant Gerke
    Publication: Automation World, January 28, 2013, Access Article
  • Operator Interfaces Expand Human Factors
    Author: C. Kenna Amos
    Publication: Automation World, November 2008, Access Article