Ergonomics for Beginners

Book excerpt: Loaded with information on the design of work systems, workplaces, and workstations as well as human anthropometics, Ergonomics for Beginners: A Quick Reference Guide, Third Edition provides a useful quick reference and valuable tool for novices and experienced professionals alike. Retaining the features that made each previous edition a bestseller, the authors have meticulously revised the information to address rapid developments in information and communications technology, offering ergonomics advice on topics such as wireless, remote, and hands-free controls, website design, mobile interaction, and virtual offices. Understand the Utility and Limitations of Modern Technology In their trademark, eloquent style, the authors explain the application of a human-centered approach to the design, testing, and evaluation of work systems by considering the interrelated set of physical, cognitive, social, organizational, and other relevant human factors. Their elemental, but comprehensive, treatment of the subject matter provides an authoritative and archival reference of basic theoretical and practical knowledge that will help enhance human performance and reduce the undesirable effects and unintended consequences of many human interactions with technology and the organizational environment. Small enough to carry along to work sites, with simple and clear illustrations, the book examines how to improve performance and reduce the undesirable effects and unintended consequences of many human interactions with technology and the work environment.