Author Identifier (ORCID)
Tim Bentley: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4721-8405
Abstract
In a webinar series hosted by the International Ergonomics Association, the Future of Work Committee of the International Ergonomics Association gathered inputs about the future of work from ergonomics/human factors (E/HF) experts representing different regions around the world. Through these insights, four global megatrends relevant to E/HF driving the future of work were identified: labour-market supply; work informality; technology; and climate change. Next, we applied an E/HF systems approach, using causal loop diagrams, to explore the unfolding interrelationships between these megatrends at a global level and with a national level example to determine what novel insights can be uncovered using systems analysis. We demonstrate the power of E/HF systems thinking that can enable national E/HF societies and regional think-tanks to move beyond a siloed approach to megatrends. We conclude with some high-level suggestions for E/HF to consider in order to meet the future of work challenges.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
2-1-2026
Volume
131
PubMed ID
41138509
Publication Title
Applied Ergonomics
Publisher
Elsevier
School
Mental Awareness, Respect and Safety (MARS) Centre / School of Business and Law
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Comments
Thatcher, A., Acquah, A. A., Aublet-Cuvelier, A., Becker, R., Bentley, T., Boatca, M. E., Braatz, D., Cheng, H., Coutarel, F., Gangopadhyay, S., Green, N., Heaton, N., Hsiao, H., Ma, L., Mochimaru, M., Mrugalska, B., Nitsch, V., Oliveira, P. a. B., Park, T., . . . Zhang, W. (2025). Ergonomics/human factors and the future of work: A global systems perspective. Applied Ergonomics, 131, 104665. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apergo.2025.104665