Data-to-Information Handbook: Building Effective Display Systems for Refining Processes

Transform process data into actionable information?using proven design principles

Data-to-Information Handbook: Building Effective Display Systems for Refining Processes is a practical guide for designing human-machine interfaces (HMIs) that transform raw data into clear, actionable information. Written by experts with extensive experience in control systems and operator performance, the book is grounded in the IEC 63303 and ISA-101 standards and offers comprehensive guidance on creating effective display systems that enhance operator decision-making and reduce uncertainty in continuous process environments.

The handbook explains display design principles and examples from continuous process plants across multiple industries. It specifies the information needed at each hierarchy level for major equipment and sections, with detailed representations for refinery processes. The book delivers three key applications: designing new systems, evaluating existing ones, and generating practical improvement concepts.

The book also:

• Combines guidance from the IEC 63303 and ISA-101 standards with practical strategies for?building effective HMI displays in continuous process environments.
• Provides a complete hierarchical display system for an entire refinery with examples for?different hierarchy levels.
• Specifies information requirements at each display level for major equipment and sections in?process plants.
• Offers detailed representations of systems and equipment for major refinery processes with practical display examples.
• Includes proven concepts and techniques for modifying existing graphics to enhance operator perceptibility and confidence.

The Data-to-Information Handbook is essential for project engineers, process automation engineers, display designers, and operators working in continuous process industries. Practitioners will learn to design displays that significantly improve operator confidence, reduce uncertainty, and support better decision-making in control rooms across refining, chemical, and related industries.

Ike Brackinhas 42 years of experience in the process industries, starting in maintenance and as an outside operator. He developed and applied his expertise in control strategies and centralization at Flint Hills Resources. Brackin is a founding member and Fellow of the Center for Operator Performance.

Mark Nixonhas been designing and developing control systems throughout his career, beginning in the oil and gas, refining, chemical, and pulp and paper industries. He was the lead architect for DeltaV and assisted in developing the WirelessHART specifications and IEC 62591, and has contributed to IEC, ANSI, OASIS, and ISA standards, including ISA-101.

Dave Strobharis a human factors expert with over 40 years of experience in the process industry. In 1984, he founded Beville Operator Performance Specialists, focusing on human factors engineering, operator workload analysis, and alarm/display systems. He also co-founded the Center for Operator Performance, which researches human factors in process control.