Observation
Description
Observation serves as a means of capturing what and how a person performs his or her work (in either the real or a simulated work environment).
Uses
To fully understand how the worker functions in his or her work environment.
How do I use this tool?
1. DETERMINE WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, AND WHY you wish to observe a person or task.
2. DEVELOP A DATA COLLECTION INSTRUMENT that ensures capture of all necessary and relevant information.
3. OBTAIN CONSENT AND SCHEDULE AN OBSERVATION.
4. COLLECT INFORMATION; ANALYZE IT.
5. PRESENT RESULTS IN MOST EFFICIENT FASHION (e.g. flowchart, narrative, etc.).
Expertise Required
This tool is easy to use and requires little or no training.
Advantages
Provides contextual information on a person or task being observed.
Helps one understand potential issues a change to work can introduce.
Disadvantages
Can be time consuming.
Observation can sometimes influence the behavior of the person being observed.
Requires individual serving as observer to capture "rich" information, some of which is not stated by observee.
Observer needs to understand what is "typical" vs. "atypical" related to the observation.