Human performance is a core area of HFE, yet the science and practice of optimal human performance remains underdeveloped and reduced to issues of human reliability and error. The Human Performance Special Interest Group (HPSIG) seeks to expand this scope by promoting the development and application of knowledge of optimal human performance.
Specifically, the Group adopts a holistic systems approach, focused on how high-performing systems can be designed to create the conditions for long-term, sustainable performance. This includes consideration of the cognitive, affective, neurobiological, and physical factors that underpin performance, as well as training, practice and skill development, task demands, pressure and recovery, team, leadership, and group dynamics, and the broader performance environment.
With a strong emphasis on whole-person optimisation, health and wellbeing, and performance sustainability, the Group aims to make optimal human performance more accessible to all New Zealanders.
Objectives
The HPSIG aims to:
- Advance knowledge of the systems that produce and sustain human performance.
- Promote systems thinking in the study and application of human performance.
- Foster collaboration between researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders working in human performance.
- Develop capability in designing the conditions that support sustained performance.
- Share emerging research, case studies, and practical applications across sectors.
- Make optimal performance more accessible to all New Zealander
Membership
We envision a vibrant community of HFENZ members interested in understanding and improving human performance across a wide range of domains, including but not limited to:
- High-performance sport
- Defence and security
- Emergency and rescue
- Aviation and maritime
- Healthcare
- Business
- Education
ยท The HPSIG will provide opportunities for members to:
- Attend webinars and presentations from leading researchers and practitioners
- Share current research and practical case studies.
- Discuss emerging issues and future directions in human performance.
- Build collaborations across industry, academia, and government.
- Contribute to workshops, conferences, and professional development initiatives.
- Meetings will be held throughout the year, with details communicated through the HFESNZ newsletter and website.
Group Lead
The HPSIG is led by Dr Dwain Allan.
Join the Group
To become a member of HPSIG please complete the online HPSIG application form here.