Dual design approach as a tool for the interdisciplinary design of human-centered systems

During recent years, developments in production seem to have shown a strong orientation toward finding the best technical solution to a problem. Frequently, there has been little consideration of people concerned. This approach may be called 'technocentric.' In contrast to this approach, it may be feasible to look for solutions which balance the advantages of a merely technical solution, and the skills and competencies of people. Systems of this latter kind may be called 'human-centered.' Such systems support flexible production processes based on skill-based workplaces and group work, and they are embedded into flat hierarchical structures in industry. They are increasingly considered viable in economic terms. This article discusses the concept of human-centered systems in some detail. It suggests the dual design approach as a tool to design such systems.