New Knowledge for Built Environments: Exploring Urban Design from Socio-Technical System Perspectives

This paper details the value in exploring, applying and disseminating Human Factors methods in Urban Planning and Design. This innovative research recognises that from a paradigm perspective there are similarities between the challenges faced in both disciplines. The authors have applied Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA) to explore a range of built environment issues. The findings have allowed for a clearer interpretation of the systems relationships within urban design contexts – from the functional purposes, to the important objects contained within them. This paper highlights the applications, and discusses the implications for future research and practice. It is concluded that the research contributes to a better understanding of the interdependencies between the designs, user experience and engineering requirements of key urban design projects