Function Allocation: Myths, Process, and Emerging Methods

The philosophical and practical basis of any function allocation (FA) process is to ask, in a
systematic way, “is complete system automation mandatory (e.g., for safety reasons)?” and “is
complete system automation achievable?”. If the answer to either of these questions is “no,” then function
allocation, the division of tasks between humans, automation, and the system is required.
Fitts List [1] is one of the earliest methods used to divide tasks between humans and machines. It acknowledged that
humans are better at (HABA) some tasks while machines are better at (MABA) others. Technology has changed
substantially since Fitts List and the methods and terminology of
FA along with it. This paper documents the initial findings of a systematic review on the literature
on FA, the associated concepts of Fitts List, and levels of automation. The results aim to uncover
FA techniques that are suitable for a modern technological landscape while providing designers
with more than mere descriptions of the roles that humans and automation will play in system management.