Product design

Even the simplest of products can be a nightmare to use if poorly designed. Our ancestors didn't have this problem. They could simply make things to suit themselves. These days, the designers of products are often far removed from the end users, which makes it vital to adopt an ergonomic, user-centred approach to design, including studying people using equipment, talking to them and asking them to test objects. This is especially important with 'inclusive design' where everyday products are designed with older and disabled users in mind.

Age related design

The number of people in the UK aged 75 and over is forecast to double over the next 50 years. As such, there is a need to extend the range of application of equipment, services and systems designed for the general population. Data needs to be available on relevant aspects of the capability of the whole population including older and disabled people. The aspects include the physiological (for instance, range of limb movement, strength, vision, hearing) and the psychological (for example, cognitive, reaction time, memory). Anthropometric data is also required (size and shape ranges of people). With data such as this available, a knowledge base can be generated for access by conscientious designers.

Quality of life for older and disabled people may also be enhanced by improvements in the built environment. This includes design of the home, design of public access buildings and public spaces, and design and operation of transport systems. Physical aspects of design that need to be considered include stairs and ramps, hygrothermal conditions (cold, damp, heat), security and accessibility. Sensory aspects include acoustics, lighting, comfort, communication systems, signage and navigation.

In 1995, the Government's Office of Science and Technology initiated 'EQUAL' (Extending QUAlity Life). This initiative draws research activities together that focus on achieving a better lifestyle, participating more fully and actively, and avoiding or alleviating the effects of disability. In 1997, the built environment was highlighted as an area in which EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council) funded research could make significant contribution to the aims of EQUAL. 11 projects were funded at that time (for details see www.epsrc.ac.uk/). Further relevant information can also be found at the AgeNet web site.

Design of information

Much of today's human factors research and expertise is channelled towards improving the ways we use information. Virtually everyone has experienced the frustration of using computer software that doesn't work the way they expect it to. For the majority of end users of computer programmes, if the system is not working they have no recourse but to call for technical help, or find creative ways around system limitations, using those parts that are usable, and circumventing the rest or increasing stress levels by using a substandard system. Often the problems in systems could have been avoided, if a more complete understanding of the users' tasks and requirements had been present from the start. The development of easily usable human-computer interfaces is a major issue for ergonomists today.