Ergo Basics - Tools

Problem Solving Caveats

Problem solving - like any other skill - takes practice. Here are a few caveats to consider as you practice ergonomics problem solving.

Design dictates performance

Design is the essence of ergonomics. How a tool, piece of equipment or a work process is designed will dramatically affect performance of use. Recall ergonomics was defined as:

"The optimization of all aspects of job performance - health, safety, quality, productivity, comfort - accomplished through the appropriate design and use of workstations and equipment, work processes and the overall organization of work and home."

Understand and make productive use of human behavior

The study of human behavior is a most fascinating and frustrating field of study. There are reasons why we do what we do; sometimes we just can not figure out what they are! For example a lift that takes too long to use will more than likely not be used.

It is possible to understand human behavior at some level, and to use this knowledge in a productive way. If we offer a solution that is contrary to the nature of human behavior, the solution will not be effective.

Do not fix without adequate analysis

Many novice analysts (and sometimes some experienced ones) cause themselves and others problems because they try to "fix stuff" without knowing why or what or when or who.

 Perform an adequate analysis before offering recommendations.

Always ask why

Sometimes when we look at work, all we see is what is in front of us. It is imperative that we look both up and down stream to see the context of a single work station or job demand within the overall production scheme.

Don’t generalize from a sample of one!

A common error made is to make the assumption that just because it makes sense to me or works for a particular individual it will also work for the entire population.

Be careful not to fall into the trap of population stereotypes. Recognize the diversity that exists in the user population and design to take this into account.

Scope of Influence

Know the scope of influence of the situation and the worker and not exceed the scope of influence.

If we offer a solution that is beyond the scope of influence of the individual, department, or organization, the solution will not work.

  Click to continue to Five Step Analysis Process