title: HTO - A complementary ergonomics approach.
abstract: The field of human factors and ergonomics constitutes a strong potential in systems analysis, design and improvement. However, it is difficult to communicate its potential value. This paper addresses how the human-technology-organization (HTO) concept can be defined and supports the understanding, communication and development of the systems' character and potential of human factors and ergonomics. Empirical examples from the authors' experiences of working with the HTO concept in R&D and teaching are illustrated, including its usefulness as: 1) a conceptual model; 2) an analysis framework; 3) a meta methodology; 4) a pedagogical tool; and 5) a design tool. The use of HTO provides guidance on how the system can be designed to better support health, individual and systems performance. It is further suggested that there is a strong potential for developing the theory, applications and methodological aspects of HTO.
authors.affiliation: Dept. of Industrial Engineering and Management, Jönköping University, Sweden; Unit of Ergonomics, School of Technology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden. Electronic address: anette.kartlun@ju.se.
authors.forename: Anette
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Karltun
authors.affiliation: Dept. of Industrial Engineering and Management, Jönköping University, Sweden; Unit of Ergonomics, School of Technology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden.
authors.forename: Johan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Karltun
authors.affiliation: Dept. of Engineering and Management, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Unit of Ergonomics, School of Technology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden.
authors.forename: Martina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Berglund
authors.affiliation: Unit of Ergonomics, School of Technology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden.
authors.forename: Jörgen
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Eklund
mesh_terms: D006804:Ergonomics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D066192:Manufacturing Industry; D008462:Meat-Packing Industry; D011177:Postal Service; D013548:Sweden; D013597:Systems Analysis; D013672:Technology; D017132:Workplace / Q000458:organization & administration*
keywords: Activity; Human-technology-organization; Interaction; Systems approach