Many model thinking in systems ergonomics: a case study in road safety

Area of Science:

• Complexity Science
• Systems Ergonomics

Background:

• The philosophy of many models thinking advocates for multi-method approaches in complexity science.
• Systems ergonomics often tackles complex problems, necessitating effective analytical strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the utility and compatibility of employing multiple systems ergonomics methods on a single complex problem.
• To assess if diverse analytical approaches yield integrated or incompatible insights.

Main Methods:

• Examined five distinct systems ergonomics analyses of road trauma.
• Extracted key insights from each analysis.
• Assessed the compatibility and integration potential of these insights.

Main Results:

• Applying multiple systems ergonomics methods yielded diverse insights, compensating for individual method deficiencies.
• The insights derived from different methods were found to be compatible.
• The integrated insights supported the development of holistic, systems thinking-based interventions for road trauma.

Conclusions:

• A multi-method, many models thinking approach is valuable in systems ergonomics for complex problem spaces.
• Ergonomists should adopt this approach to generate comprehensive and compatible analyses.
• This integrated approach facilitates the creation of more effective, holistic interventions.