University of Wisconsin–Madison
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Empowering human performance in intelligent systems. 

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The HEART Initiative engineers systems with humans in mind. We use cutting-edge research and industry partnerships to design technologies that are safe, effective, and built around people in complex, real-world environments.

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OUR MISSION

Engineering Systems for People

We develop methods, metrics, and frameworks that capture how humans interact with emerging technologies in intelligent systems, then translate this knowledge into human-ready technologies that empower people to thrive. Our mission is to position human-readiness levels as essential for performance, safety, and trust in real-world applications. 

two people in a manufacturing line with robot arms
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Shifting the Future of How We Work

The HEART Initiative builds on UW–Madison’s notable reputation for human-systems engineering. We collaborate with experts across departments and colleges to shape the direction of human-centered engineering and accelerate translational impact not only for individuals, but for teams and entire organizations.

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doctor and da vinci robot arm performing surgery

WHY IT MATTERS

Centering Humans in Systems, from Research to Implementation

We believe human factors should be integral to engineering intelligent systems, because humans are integral to our world. Our initiative ensures innovative systems science is ready to support human needs within processes like commercialization or new technology implementation.

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surgeon using robot arms

01.
Healthcare

person in manufacturing
security person in front of monitors

03.
Security

semi trucks on highway with sensors

04.
Transportation

person working on scientific equipment

05.
Emerging Tech

nuclear energy tokamak

06.
Energy

two people in manufacturing line with robotic arm and augmented reality
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Ready to get started?

Reach out to learn more about how the HEART Inititative can empower you, your workers, and your systems.