Using a digital data analytic tool to capture dynamic change in coordination patterns: An exploratory study of the...

Area of Science:

• Human Factors and Ergonomics
• Sociotechnical Systems Analysis
• Cognitive Systems Engineering

Background:

• Complex sociotechnical systems operate in uncertain environments, necessitating continuous adaptation of coordination strategies.
• Traditional methods in Human Factors and Ergonomics often use static approaches, failing to capture real-time coordination adjustments.
• Understanding moment-by-moment coordination restructuring is vital for system resilience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate coordination restructuring in dynamic operational environments.
• To introduce and apply the THEME digital analytical tool for multi-layered visualization of coordination patterns.
• To analyze coordination shifts during the Apollo 13 mission to understand adaptation during crisis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized THEME, a digital tool for visualizing and analyzing coordination restructuring.
• Examined coordination patterns within NASA's Apollo 13 mission data.
• Employed a multi-layered analytical perspective to explore temporality-sensitive coordination phenomena.

Main Results:

• Observed significant shifts in coordination patterns from stable, long-duration 'hubs' during routine operations to shorter-duration patterns during the Apollo 13 crisis.
• Highlighted the importance of flexible switching between reciprocal and one-directed coordination.
• Identified enhanced role distribution as a key factor in adaptive coordination.

Conclusions:

• Digital technologies like THEME enable a deeper understanding of temporality-sensitive coordination phenomena.
• Analyzing coordination restructuring through dynamic methods enhances incident analysis and improves understanding of resilient performance in complex systems.
• The findings provide insights into adaptive strategies for managing uncertainty in sociotechnical systems.