Ergonomics

And human variability...

Robert Gordon University

Variation
Human beings have widely differing sizes, abilities &
capabilities.
This is a challenge for many reasons Ergonomics

Size, weight, reach, strength

Comprehension

Are instructions unambiguous?

Are there any cultural assumptions made?
Are signs & signals universal?

Effectiveness & Safety

Robert Gordon University

Variability
How do we measure that variability?
Fairly straightforward for height, weight, reach.
After that...?

Most of the measures we use are arbitrary.

Some have practical relevance.
Some have cultural assumptions built in.
Most involve judgement. Objective standards are
hard to define.

Robert Gordon University

Behaviour variability?
Is behaviour a constant...
Or is it varied by context?
Nature or nurture?
I

think behaviour varies with:

Context
State of health, hunger
State of mind
Peer group feedback
Personality
etc, etc...

Robert Gordon University

Personality
Not an exact science!
As with behaviour, various influences may
affect personality, both long term and
short term.

Nature or Nurture?
A tricky and potentially contentious area
Most parents (to my knowledge) see both
influences at work in their children

Robert Gordon University

 Robert Gordon University