HIPARSYS Work Package 3 (WP3) FINAL REPORT

Abstract

This research developed an agent-based computer model to simulate the behaviours, cognitions, and working processes occurring within engineering teams engaged in product design. The research constituted Work Package 3 of the HIPARSYS Project. A preliminary model was first developed based on a review of the research literature. Further research was then conducted in the organizations, using questionnaires and interviews, to examine their engineering teams. The analysis of the data collected was then used to inform the further development of the model, by deriving the equations and rules on which it is based. The model includes several different types of variables, some at an individual-level (such as competency, motivation, and availability), some at a team-level (such as communication frequency, shared mental models, and trust), and some concerning tasks (such as difficulty) including performance variables (time, process time, and quality). The agent-based model is now available for those in the organizations to use, and, as such, constitutes the major deliverable for this research. However, the model has also been used to conduct a large number of simulations in response to research questions posed by the organizations, and these are also reported here together with some resultant recommendations for improving team performance. The current model therefore represents a useful tool to facilitate organisational change and decision making. However, given the relative novelty of simulating human working processes, this research should also be viewed as the first step in developing a longer-term capability in this area.

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