The human factor in an effective structure management system

Hand, S. and Caldwell, L. and Scannell, J. (2016) The human factor in an effective structure management system. In: ICSE 2016 (8th International Conference on Scour and Erosion), 12-15 September 2016, Oxford, UK.

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Abstract

This paper demonstrates that while an effective structure monitoring system benefits strongly from the integration of modern technologies, human experience and oversight remain the essential component. The myriad of technologies available for structure monitoring and management are improving at a great rate. These technologies provide analysis and oversight at levels which historically have been uneconomical or unachievable. A single instance of the DamWatch application is providing real-time, always-on monitoring of 12,000 dam structures for 3,000 users in the United States (Caldwell, Scannell, & Herbert, 2014). Automated systems can tirelessly monitor data feeds, rapidly perform complex calculations and dispatch notifications. However, this paper argues that the impacts of this growing role for technology, while powerful, is still superseded by the impacts of the human input in structure management systems. An optimal structure management system should be designed with this in mind. This includes ensuring data is complete and accurate, easily accessible and understandable for users. User contribution and involvement in structure management systems should not be limited by an individual’s computer literacy. Users should be trained and supported to ensure they are able to react to and leverage data provided by information systems. Clearly defined protocols allow individuals to make informed decisions and organizations to respond promptly to developing situations. To assess these arguments we will examine a number of case studies. These case studies will focus on hydrologic events which affected bridge and dam structures in the care of multiple, unrelated managing authorities. By exploring the incidents, the responses and the eventual outcomes, we will weigh the role of human data in the effective management of structures exposed to the natural environment.

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