title: Evaluating a digital ship design tool prototype: Designers' perceptions of novel ergonomics software.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Human Factors & Navigation Division, Department of Shipping and Marine Technology, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden. Electronic address: steven.mallam@chalmers.se.
authors.forename: Steven C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Mallam
authors.affiliation: Human Factors & Navigation Division, Department of Shipping and Marine Technology, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden.
authors.forename: Monica
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lundh
authors.affiliation: Human Factors & Navigation Division, Department of Shipping and Marine Technology, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden.
authors.forename: Scott N
authors.initials: SN
authors.lastname: MacKinnon
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001108:Architecture; D001290:Attitude; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D006804:Ergonomics; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010465:Perception; D012767:Ships; D012984:Software; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Naval architecture; New technology adoption; Participatory design