Physical equipment; e.g., mechanical, magnetic, electrical or electronic devices. Contrast with software or procedures implemented by human beings.
Heuristic
A self learning or adaptive process that may help in the solution of a problem, but that does not guarantee the best solution, or any solution. [DEC].
Hierarchy
Organized or classified according to rank or authority, an arrangement of persons or things in a graded series. Adj: Hierarchical, hierarchic. Adv: Hierarchically. (1) A data structure consisting of sets and subsets such that every subset of a set is a lower rank than the data of the set. (2) Any structure consisting of units and sub-units where the sub-units are of lower rank than the units involved.
Human-Machine Redundancy
Extent to which operators should be involved in tasks performed by machines as a check on machine operation.
Human and Organizational Architecture
That part of the Purdue Enterprise Reference Architecture that describes and illustrates those functions, tasks, etc. involved with all human activities necessary for its subject enterprise.
Human Machine Interface
Also known as Man Machine Interface (MMI). A device able to present information to the operator about the state of a process, and to accept and implement the operators control instructions. It may also interpret the plant information and guide the interaction of the operator with the system.
Human Factors
The field of effort and body of knowledge devoted to the adaptation and design of equipment for efficient and advantageous use by people considering physiological, psychological and training factors.
Hurdle Rate
The expected rate of return on capital which a proposed project must meet in order to be accepted by management.