Ergonomics

Question 1

Ergonomics

Answer 1

Study of the relationship between the human workers andtheir work environment.

Question 2

Aim/Goal of ergonomics?

What does it help do?

Answer 2

To create an environment that caters to the physical, emotional and psychological aspects of the work experience.

Ergonomically sound work environment improves morale and productivity.

Question 3

What does an ergonomically designed product bring to the user?

Answer 3

Ergonomically designed equipment involves the comfort, satisfaction, productivity and health of workers.

Question 4

User interface should be… should avoid..

Answer 4

• Should be designed to be user friendly and not cause health issues.
• Frustration or distraction from an important task, areexamples of health issues.
  • Should be
    
    • user friendly
    • consistent
    • easy to use
    • responsive

Question 5

Consistency examples and allows…

Answer 5

E.g. consistent colour scheme, label wordings, button placements, shortcuts in similar applications etc.

Consistency of design allows users to transfer skills from other applications, or parts of the same application, into newer areas.

Question 6

How softwares can be developed with consistency

Answer 6

• Set standards and stick to them —> Develop specific standards for software if needed

E.g. Having the same design standards

• Have a simple set of rules —> Avoids complication, such as detailed rules for each feature.
• Use interface elements correctly —> Screen elements used for unexpected functions can confuse user (e.g. altering interface element functions can confuse them)

E.g. Command buttons, Radio boxes, Textbooks, Check boxes etc.

• Use colour appropriately —> use consistent colour scheme, use contrasting colours to avoid confusion.

E.g. Not enough contrast between text and background can make it hard to read the text.

• Use fonts appropriately —> use consistent fonts throughout application, choose a readable font.
• Align data entry elements —> Make sure data entry elements are aligned for simplicity and include label for each elements
• Provide consistent shortcuts within applications —> Allows users to be familiar with application from previous use

E.g. Undo, cut, copy and paste button shortcuts (ctrl z,x,c,v)

• Appropriate messages to user —> Placement, unambiguity and positivity of messages are also important.

E.g. users expect to see messages in the centre of the screen and message’s to inform of the problem’s cause when it does occur.

Question 7

Ease of use

How can screens be kept simple and efficient?

Answer 7

• Navigation between screens should be easy and let the user control it
  * Functions and shortcuts should be displayed clearly to the user
  * Functions unavailable should still appear to inform user that the function exists
  * Reduce unambiguity and business of the screen (e.g. use simple icons, not obscure ones)
  * Have an acceptable response time for actions
  * Have appropriate use of language and options in messages, input elements etc.