Information Theory and Man-Machine Systems

Information theory has been used recently as the basis for some experimental studies of the abilities of humans as processors of information. One possible approach to the analysis of man-machine systems is to consider the implications of such experimental knowledge for the design of man-machine systems. The functions performed by human operators in these systems are primarily those of control of the energy resources of the system. Control functions involve, by their very nature, the availability of relevant information and the opportunity to transmit control decisions reached on the basis of this information. It is important not only that enough information be available to an operator in order to carry out his control responsibilities, but also that these tasks be not complicated unnecessarily by the provision of too much or irrelevant information. Moreover, in applying an informational analysis to control tasks, it is essential that consideration be given as to what sorts of categories are perceptually possible for operators since any analysis which does not take into account certain perceptual limitations of humans is likely to be invalid. Following this point of view it is suggested that intelligent design of man-machine systems involves compatibility between the control requirements of a system and the capabilities of the men in the system. Operations Research , ISSN 0030-364X, was published as Journal of the Operations Research Society of America from 1952 to 1955 under ISSN 0096-3984.