Interaction-centred design: an end user evaluation of road intersection concepts developed using the cognitive work analysis design toolkit (CWA-DT)

Abstract

Crashes at intersections represent an important road safety problem. Interactions between different road user types, such as between vehicles and vulnerable road users, are a particular concern. It has been suggested driver-centric road design plays a role in crashes. A multi-road user evaluation of three novel intersection designs is described. The designs were generated using the Cognitive Work Analysis Design Toolkit, underpinned by sociotechnical systems theory. The desktop evaluation involved drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians rating the design concepts against alignment with design goals, sociotechnical systems theory and usability, and providing feedback on the positive and negative aspects. Two concepts received more positive ratings and feedback in comparison to a concept that provided more user autonomy. The evaluation results also highlight clear differences in needs across road user groups. The design and evaluation process demonstrates how sociotechnical systems values and principles can be applied in the design of public spaces.

Practitioner Summary: This study involved a participatory evaluation of novel road intersection designs, based on sociotechnical systems theory. The results identified important differences in needs and preferences across road user groups and demonstrate the value of sociotechnical systems theory and user participation in road transport design and evaluation processes.

Abbreviations: CWA-DT: cognitive work analysis design toolkit; WDA: work domain analysis; SUS: system usability scale

Keywords:

• Sociotechnical systems theory
• design
• road safety
• intersections
• end user evaluation

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Acknowledgement

We thank Nicole Liddell for her assistance with data presentation and the two anonymous reviewers whose comments assisted to improve this paper.

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded through an Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Grant [DP120100199] provided to the University of the Sunshine Coast, Monash University and Heriot Watt University. Gemma Read’s contribution to this research was funded through her ARC Discovery Early Career Research Award [DE180101449]. Paul Salmon’s contribution was funded through his ARC Future Fellowship [FT140100681].