# Using role-play and Hierarchical Task Analysis for designing human-robot interaction

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.13378 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2509.13378/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 16 Sep 2025.

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [Medication counseling with large language models: balancing flexibility and rigidity](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2601.11544/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

We present the use of two methods we believe warrant more use than they currently have in the field of human-robot interaction: role-play and Hierarchical Task Analysis. Some of its potential is showcased through our use of them in an ongoing research project which entails developing a robot application meant to assist at a community pharmacy. The two methods have provided us with several advantages. The role-playing provided a controlled and adjustable environment for understanding the customers' needs where pharmacists could act as models for the robot's behavior; and the Hierarchical Task Analysis ensured the behavior displayed was modelled correctly and aided development through facilitating co-design. Future research could focus on developing task analysis methods especially suited for social robot interaction.