IMPLICATIONS OF ADVANCED AUTOMATION FOR SHIPS' PERSONNEL

Part A of the paper discusses in general terms the human implications of employing more advanced automation at sea. The introduction of advanced technology implies the design of new jobs and work organisation for people, which will require careful consideration if the full benefits from investment are to be realised. A summary is given of experience from industry ashore, and of the effects of technological change to data on job requirements at sea. The factors to be considered in job design, and in the design of man-machine systems, are discussed. General job design criteria are summarised in an Appendix. Since automation in ships may in the future be accompanied by a marked reduction in manning levels, the social implications of operating deep-sea ships with small crews is examined. It is argued that a work force of less than ten could form a viable social group, but that this would require certain changes in the traditional form of crew organisation. Part B considers the relation between the progressive development ship automation and the career expectations of the men entering and already in the industry, with reference to the effects on their technical roles and their education and training requirements. The need is stressed for a properly- coordinated long-term plan to prepare for the 1980's.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Proceedings of the Symposium on the Use of Computers in Shipboard Automation, held at the London Tara Hotel, Kensington, 11th and 12th March 1975.
• Corporate Authors:

  Royal Institution of Naval Architects, England

  10 Upper Belgrave Street
  London SW1X 8BQ,   England 
• Authors:
  • Hatfield, M R
  • Smith, H R
  • HOLDER, L A
  • Taylor, A R
• Conference:
  • Proceedings of the Symposium on the Use of Computers in Shipboard Automation, held at the London Tara Hotel, Kensington, 11th and 12th March 1975.
• Publication Date: 1975-3

Media Info

• Features: References;
• Pagination: p. 78-91

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automation; Control systems; Economics; Manning requirements; Ships
• Old TRIS Terms: Ship automation
• Subject Areas: Economics; Marine Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00128991
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Royal Institution of Naval Architects, England
• Report/Paper Numbers: Paper No. 6
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 21 1976 12:00AM