Human factors design of future ship control centres

The paper presents a comprehensive yet practical approach to the application of human factors to the design of future ship control centres. The work reported is based on two studies: 1) the development of a prototype VDU-based machinery control and surveillance system PMS-CADET (Platform Management System-Control and Display Evaluation Tool); and 2) an in-depth study into the warship marine engineering and damage control roles and tasks. This latter study was aimed at investigating the optimum balance of manual and automated resources. The design of future ship control centres will be a significantly more rigorous process than has hitherto been the case. The reasons stem from the Royal Navy´s need for enhanced system performance, comfort and safety, based on traceable research and development, utilising the latest appropriate technologies