Socio-technical system design and organisational power structures: : Addressing growing complexity in aerospace

Abstract

This study identified and analysed the concerns of aviation stakeholders (regulators, air traffic controllers, engineers , pilots) about automation at different levels within organisational and societal structures. It also generated themes to illustrate possible relationships, associations and inter-connections between these concerns. The resulting hypothesis stated two key points: first, a somewhat deficient human communication, cooperation and interaction; second, a lack of awareness about deeper power & cultural issues (such as the dynamics of hierarchies and power structures) that lie beneath the surface of day-to-day operations. In acknowledging these two points, it could more effectively highlight areas for improvement in resiliency in what are still today predominantly techno-centric system. Essentially, organisations could create cultures that produce the genuine change needed for resilience in the face of rising complexity and emerging risks.