Joint cognitive system design and process control

The aim in this paper is to look at some important issues involved in the design of human-machine systems for process control and automation, and discuss the significance of Joint Cognitive Systems (JCS) paradigm in the design process. The discussion is presented within the framework of Cognitive Systems Engineering (CSE) in particular, and in Socio-Technical System (STS) design framework, in general. The discussion is focused on process control problems in process and manufacturing industries. As a relatively new paradigm in human-machine system design, the potential benefits offered by the JCS will be elaborated. Also, a comparative view of Design for Simplicity and Design for Complexity is provided as two alternative approaches in the JCS paradigm in relation to process control and automation. The use of decision support systems in JCS design will also be discussed briefly.