Assessing the Compatibility of Work System Factors Through an Integrative Model: A Case Study

Abstract

Work Factor Compatibility (WFC) theory proposes that human performance is dependent on the interaction of various components (e.g., physical and mental task demands, physical environment, social environment) of the work system and integrates multiple human performance perspectives into a single mathematical model. Work Factor Analysis (WFA) is a comprehensive survey administered to employees to determine the WFC index. WFA also provides recommendations for targeting specific work system areas for improvement. Preliminary testing of the tool was conducted at a manufacturing operation of a Fortune 10 company. Results are discussed and recommendations for further study are made.

Performance tracking through the work compatibility model

“…Demand and energizer levels. The human-at-work system is represented by a hierarchy of work characteristics that constitute the work environment (Wallace, Shoaf, Genaidy, & Karwowski, 2003). If the work characteristic consumes the energy from the system, it increases the demand level (e.g., low work pay has a negative impact on the effort that is needed for the system).…”

Measuring the Complex Construct of Macroergonomic Compatibility: A Manufacturing System Case Study

“…As Karwowski [25] states, the lack of a universal matrix to quantify and measure macroergonomic compatibility is an important obstacle to demonstrating the value of ergonomics as a science and as a profession. To overcome this obstacle, researchers such as Wallace et al [26], Koyuncu et al [27], Pacholski and Szczuka [28], and Realyvásquez-Vargas et al [2] have proposed their own macroergonomic compatibility measurements. The latter [2] proposed a mathematical model called macroergonomic compatibility index (MCI) to measure the macroergonomic compatibility of manufacturing systems at three hierarchies: macroergonomic elements, macroergonomic factors, and manufacturing systems.…”

A Neural Network Model for Human Performance Optimization in the Workplace

“…The magnitude of work energizer, work demand, or work compatibility is each described by five linguistic levels, that is, very low (VL), low (L), moderate (M), high (H), and very high (VH) [5]. For mathematical derivation of WC, we express these levels by numerical numbers ranging from 1 to 5 corresponding to the five linguistic levels, respectively.…”

“…In a follow-up study, Wallace et al proposed an empirical solution, based on practice and expert knowledge, for the work compatibility concept as a function of the positive and negative impact factors in the work system [5] (see Table I). …”

“…MATHEMATICAL MODEL As pointed out earlier, Wallace et al developed an empirical solution for the WC matrix based on expert knowledge [5] (see Table 1). Despite preliminary agreement with work productivity, quality and safety, the mathematical equation of this solution was not formulated.…”