Jens Rasmussen (human factors expert)
Jens Rasmussen (1926-2018) was a Danish researcher recognized as a foundational figure in the field of human factors and cognitive systems engineering. His work significantly impacted the understanding of human error, risk management, and the design of complex socio-technical systems. He is particularly known for his development of the Skills-Rules-Knowledge (SRK) framework and the AcciMap accident analysis method.
Rasmussen's SRK framework posits that human cognitive behavior can be categorized into three levels: skill-based, rule-based, and knowledge-based. Skill-based behavior refers to automated actions performed without conscious control, typically in familiar situations. Rule-based behavior involves applying stored rules or procedures triggered by recognized patterns. Knowledge-based behavior is invoked in novel or unfamiliar situations, requiring conscious problem-solving and the application of abstract knowledge. This framework has been widely used to analyze human performance in various domains, from aviation to healthcare, and to understand how errors can arise at each level.
His development of AcciMap provided a systemic approach to accident analysis. Unlike traditional linear models of accident causation, AcciMap emphasizes the complex interactions between different levels of an organization that contribute to an accident. It maps the relationships between actors and activities at different levels, from government regulations to individual actions, revealing systemic weaknesses and potential points of intervention.
Rasmussen’s work emphasized the importance of considering the broader context in which humans operate and highlighted the limitations of focusing solely on individual error as the cause of accidents. He advocated for designing systems that are resilient and tolerant of human error, recognizing that humans are an integral part of complex systems and that errors are inevitable. His theories and methodologies continue to influence the design of safer and more effective systems in a wide range of industries. Rasmussen held positions at Risø National Laboratory in Denmark for much of his career and lectured and consulted internationally. His contributions have left a lasting legacy on the field of human factors and safety science.