Like the first edition, the revision of this successful Handbook responds to the growing need for specific tools and methods for testing and evaluating human-system interfaces. Indications are that the market for information on these tools and applications will continue to grow in the 21st century. One of the goals of offering a second edition is to expand and emphasize the application chapters, providing contemporary examples of human factors test and evaluation (HFTE) enterprises across a range of systems and environments. Coverage of the standard tools and techniques used in HFTE have been updated as well.
New features of the Handbook of Human Factors Testing and Evaluation include:
*new chapters covering human performance testing, manufacturing ergonomics, anthropometry, generative design methods, and usability testing;
*updated tools and techniques for modeling, simulation, embedded testing, training assessment, and psychophysiological measurement;
*new applications chapters presenting human factors testing examples in aviation and avionics, forestry, road safety, and software systems; and
*more examples, illustrations, graphics and tables have been added.
The orientation of the current work has been toward breadth of coverage rather than in-depth treatment of a few issues or techniques. Experienced testers will find much that is familiar, as well as new tools, creative approaches, and a rekindled enthusiasm. Newcomers will discover the diversity of issues, methods, and creative approaches that make up the field. In addition, the book is written in such a way that individuals outside the profession should learn the intrinsic value and pleasure in ensuring safe, efficient, and effective operation, as well as increased user satisfaction through HFTE.
The handbook is not a quick or easy read, nor should it be. Its breadth of coverage justifies its hefty length, and I expect to continue to use it much as I might a thorough reference book: as a memory refresher in some of the methods and techniques, and to expand my ideas from another's perspective on applications.
—Ergonomics in Design
The handbook contains current information and focuses on the major methodologies and technologies of human factors T&E with sufficient depth to serve well as a textbook for an undergraduate or graduate-level course in test and evaluation. More significantly, the broad range of applications offers enough examples for a beginning practitioner to adapt to many other applications.
