3326 Guidance on human and organisational factors aspects of implementing new technologies

Overview:

This publication provides guidance on the introduction of new technology into an organisation, and more specifically, the management of human and organisational factors (HOF) issues which have the potential to influence the success of its introduction. This is an updated version of the original publication from 2017 that now covers newer technologies that are being implemented more frequently, such as automation and artificial intelligence.

It is aimed at organisations who want to introduce new technologies to their organisation and directs readers towards relevant processes and tools which may assist them in the management of HOF issues.

Whilst some mention of specific technologies is made, this publication primarily provides a generic set of questions and accompanying guidance to help organisations plan for the introduction of any new technology. The questions focus on understanding whether the technology will:

1. be beneficial;
2. affect the level of risk, and
3. be accepted by the workforce.

Guidance is also summarised in easy-to-use check-sheets (Annex C), and examples and case studies are provided throughout. Annex D includes relevant tools and techniques for the introduction of new technology. Annex E contains screening tables specific to the introduction of highly automated systems and artificial intelligence (AI) to help determine the types of HOF challenges faced and whether HOF intervention is required.