
Empowering human performance in intelligent systems.

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.

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.


OUR UNIQUE EXPERTISE
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.


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.

OUR INDUSTRIES

01.
Healthcare

02.
Manufacturing

03.
Security

04.
Transportation

05.
Emerging Tech

06.
Energy


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