A human factors expert is frequently consulted when an analysis of human behavior is required in a professional setting. He or she has received specialized training in engineering and psychology to assess how people interact with one another and with the rest of the world. Human factors experts are often used in legal cases, but they can also be useful in other fields like insurance operations research and industrial design.
Human behavior experts usually have a doctorate degree. They have a strong scientific background, particularly in psychology, sociology, engineering, and other fields. Human behavior experts frequently use linguistics, pathology, and criminology. They must also have a large number of papers, books, or other materials published in order to be considered credible experts.
This type of expert, also known as a human factors consultant or human factors engineer, may be needed in a variety of situations. He or she may assist insurance companies in assessing customer risk and vehicle safety when working with them. A government human factors expert could collaborate with a city engineering team to design the safest possible buildings and transportation systems. Companies that need to reassess their safety issues may hire a human factors expert to help them figure out how to make their workplaces safer.
Human factors experts called to testify in court can have a wide range of experience. They could aid in the explanation of human behavior in personal injury cases, murder trials, and other situations requiring scientific knowledge. These experts may testify about fundamental aspects of a case, such as an eyewitness’ perception during a police lineup or while recalling past events.
A hired human factors expert may also explain specific aspects of a case, such as a defendant’s defense strategy or the validity of a medical issue.
Many cases involving very specific illnesses or defense strategies rely on the expertise of a human factors expert to attest to the validity of the issues at hand. These experts can be used by both defense and prosecution attorneys.
Beyond consultations, some human factors experts offer additional assistance to clients. They may conduct research tailored to the needs of that client, informing them of current scientific standards as well as new research and developments in their fields of interest. They can create a custom publication tailored to a company’s needs, outlining safety strategies for internal use. Clients and their employees may be trained in safety techniques and procedures as part of the job.