scope:

Description of Driving Event:

The movement of some requests for software upgrades to crew procedures is a matter of serious concern. The crew already has a very large number of procedures with which to be familiar. Adding to that load, particularly with items that could be handled easily with greater reliability and safety by software, does not seem wise. Procedures such as "do not touch the keyboard for X seconds after the occurrence of event Y" can be handled easily by software. If such procedures are contingencies that are employed infrequently, the chance of error when they are needed rises.

A review of all computer-related procedures to ascertain whether or not there is significant potential for design-induced human errors should be mounted. This review should include crew representatives, experts on human factors, and members of safety and mission quality organization.