Open AccessExploring the Impact of COVID-19 Lock-down on Public Spaces through a Systems Modelling Approach
Author(s) -
Nicholas Stevens,
Silvia Tavares
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
the journal of public space
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2206-9658
DOI - 10.32891/jps.v5i3.1377
Subject(s) - sociotechnical system , archetype , covid-19 , public space , space (punctuation) , lock (firearm) , computer science , work (physics) , socio cognitive , sociology , process management , knowledge management , risk analysis (engineering) , systems engineering , cognition , business , architectural engineering , engineering , psychology , medicine , art , literature , pathology , virology , outbreak , operating system , mechanical engineering , disease , neuroscience , infectious disease (medical specialty)
This paper offers a Human Factors and Ergonomic & Sociotechnical Systems (HFE & STS) methodology to assist in the exploration and description of COVID-19 lockdown impacts on public spaces in Queensland, Australia. The approach utilises an existing - before COVID - systems model of an archetype public space to identify activities that were restricted in public space, and how such restrictions affect system performance. First an overview of the HFE & STS system modelling approach, Cognitive Work Analysis, is provided and we present the systems model of an archetype public space. Next, the range of lockdown restrictions on public space activity are identified in the model and the system's implications on community and individual wellbeing are explored. In conclusion, the necessity for new activities and functions of public space, post COVID-19, are reflected upon and considered from a systems standpoint.