'When Hywel Met Paul' – Another Look at the Early Days of Human Factors and Ergonomics

During the late 1940’s and 50’s regular visits and meetings took place between early pioneers of Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) on both sides of the Atlantic (Murrell, 1980). These meetings influenced the subsequent... [ view full abstract ]

During the late 1940’s and 50’s regular visits and meetings took place between early pioneers of Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) on both sides of the Atlantic (Murrell, 1980). These meetings influenced the subsequent formation of both the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) in the USA and CIEHF in the UK. This paper contrasts the careers and scientific work of two of these pioneers (Hywel Murrell and Paul Fitts) and aims to show how many of the characteristics of early HFE have influenced present-day character of debates taking place in more recent years (e.g., research/practice gaps; the status of HFE as a science). The paper summarizes some characteristics of collaborative war-time scientific work, as well as commonalities in the background and scientific interests of Murrell and Fitts. A final section covers aspects of continuity within HFE over the last 60 years.