The strategic allocation of functions between human intelligence and machine automation is poised to transform our technological future. With an approach that departs from the prevalent trend of minimizing human involvement, this book argues for a balanced approach where each new technology is designed to enhance and integrate human capabilities. Illustrated through clear diagrams and compelling contrasts, it challenges the automation-dominated trajectory of modern technological development.
This fascinating title introduces the Science of Function Allocation (FA), a holistic discipline that goes beyond the narrow scope of traditional human factors engineering. By examining real-world case studies, from the failures of autonomous vehicles and airline automation to the complexities of medical systems and social media addiction, it exposes the critical flaws in current automation strategies and argues how better and more cohesive approaches can yield outstanding results. Case studies from major international events to more parochial affairs reveal a variety of real-life instances where humans and machines have clashed or worked seamlessly together. Through these engaging narratives, readers will learn how proper function allocation can resolve the pervasive mismatches between machine automation and human expertise that plague our technology-laden lives.
Written by a leading expert in the field, Mind on Fire: Designing for the Human Operating System in an Automated World is essential for technologists seeking sustainable innovation, policymakers, healthcare professionals, software developers and students and practitioners of engineering and human factors, and anyone interested in the future of human-machine interaction.