Cognitive Work Analysis
The CWA tool
The CWA process is often criticised for being complex and time consuming, this tool attempts to provide some level of guidance and expedite the documentation process to address these concerns. The tool uses an example scenario to guide novices through the CWA domain and the tools application. A tabbed view is used that describes a linear process allowing the user to jump backwards and forwards at their own convenience. The tool is broken down into 5 sections based on the 5 phases of CWA defined by Vicente (1999).
Each phase is further broken down into sections; the first section introduces the phase in generic terms briefly explaining the principles behind the particular level of the framework. The next section provides a worked example of the analysis at the current phase. The example is fully annotated in an attempt to explain the phase further to novices. The subsequent phase’s sections allow the user to develop the documentation required; the process is supported by mouse-overs and prompts to guide novices in creating diagrams.
View an example of an Abstraction Hierarchy created by the tool
View an example of an Contextual Activity Template created by the tool
Distribution of the Tool
The plan is to distribute the tool within the Human Factors community at no charge. The software tool is currently at a functioning prototype stage; in order to develop the tool further we are interested in obtaining wider feedback. Participating users will receive a copy of the software tool to use in their work; the opportunity also exists to shape the final version around specific requirements.
If you are interested in taking part in this opportunity please contact Prof Neville Stanton at N.Stanton@soton.ac.uk with a short description of the proposed application of the tool.
