Modeling and simulating practices, a work method for work systems design

Work systems involve people engaging in activities over time-not just with each other, but also with machines, tools, documents, and other artifacts. These activities often produce goods, services, or-as is the case in the work system described in this article-scientific data. Work systems and work practice evolve slowly over time. The integration and use of technology, the distribution and collocation of people, organizational roles and procedures, and the facilities where the work occurs largely determine this evolution.