Human Factors & Usability Engineering
We apply human-centred design and usability testing to digital systems across the defence and space sectors.
From command interfaces to operational dashboards and secure web portals, our process ensures every interaction supports decision-making under pressure, reduces the risk of human error, and meets both compliance and mission-readiness standards.
How We Work
We apply human factors principles to ensure digital systems align with real human capabilities, limitations, and operating contexts. From cockpit displays to command interfaces, our approach supports safe, efficient, and intuitive interaction, especially when the margin for error is razor-thin.
1. Operational Context & Cognitive Demands
We begin by analysing the real-world environments in which your systems operate. This includes cognitive workload, stress factors, situational awareness, and environmental conditions (e.g. low light, vibration, noise). Understanding these constraints helps us design systems that fit the mission, not just the screen.
2. Human-System Interaction Analysis
We model how users interact with your systems, including perception, decision-making, and response. This involves scenario walkthroughs, error analysis, and compatibility checks with other systems or procedures already in place.
3. Task Analysis & Workload Modelling
Through task analysis and workload assessment, we identify the sequence of actions users take and the cognitive effort required at each step. This allows us to streamline interactions, reduce the chance of error, and flag overload or inefficiencies.
4. Interface Concepting & Behaviour Mapping
We create functional wireframes and behaviour models that reflect real human-system interaction. These highlight user intent, feedback loops, and how the interface behaves under normal, degraded, or emergency conditions.
5. Usability Testing in Context
We conduct usability evaluations with users under simulated or representative conditions. This may include testing with PPE, limited dexterity, extreme environments, or high-stress scenarios. We capture both behavioural observations and biometric/quantitative data.
6. Iterative Design & Documentation
Based on testing results, we refine the system design, ensuring it aligns with standards such as MIL-STD-1472, ISO 9241, or NASA-STD-3001 (where applicable). We then provide detailed usability documentation for integration into design specifications, training systems, and certification packages.