Autonomy aweigh: Evaluation metrics and supporting seafarers’ basic psychological needs in energy-efficient route planning DSS

Abstract

To achieve necessary CO₂e emission reductions in the maritime industry, decision support systems (DSS) can assist seafarers in energy-efficient operations. However, adequate evaluation measures beyond classical human–machine interaction (HCI) metrics are required to ensure these systems are human-centered and align with Industry 5.0 goals, including human–machine cooperation and basic psychological needs, especially autonomy. Objectives of this research were (1) to understand how different metrics evaluate route-planning DSS and a route adaptation feature, and (2) to explore autonomy support in DSS usage. Simulator (N = 48) and online (N = 20) studies with experienced seafarers showed HCI metrics alone did not quantify the adaptation feature’s potential. Thematic analysis of interviews highlighted algorithm comprehensiveness, usability, user empowerment, and collaborative workflows as key autonomy aspects. Furthermore, seafarers preferred automated information acquisition and analysis but human decision-making for route planning. We discuss design guidelines to improve autonomy satisfaction for energy-efficient route planning.