ERGONOMICS

Every item designed is touched by a human, if it cannot be used it does not perform its basic function. All good ergonomists will tell you that good design is human centred. We take the view that design is user centred, not user lead.

We can support the design at each stage as it evolves and develops, from concept to 2D and into computer modelling. The earlier we are engaged the cheaper it is to increase operability and maintainability across your full user population. Operability and maintainability make the design a success and safe for the operators and the business. Apply human-centred design in line with the latest health and safety regulations reduces poor postures and constant muscle loading (avoiding Work Related Upper Limb Disorders or Repetitive Strain Injuries). Importantly, it also reduces the likelihood of human error and the associated business consequences.

Using the correct method we can ensure equipment and spaces are optimal for use and maintenance, each control is accessible, each workstation is comfortable, each sign is visible and each task is within the capabilities of the user.

Past projects include:

Ship accommodation, cabins, galleys, engine rooms, sick bays
Military bridge construction
Maintenance access to building services; HVAC, pipework, fire dampers
Reach assessments in heavy engineering designs
Air Traffic Control rooms and Sonar workstation design
Train cab design
Fruit packing and distribution centres
Rapid Upper Limb Assessments (RULA)
User Experience - Touchscreen and web-based apps. Including design of interfaces, review of proposed designs and user testing
Usability studies - Medical and self-service terminals. Including project scoping, participant recruitment, documentation (protocol and moderator guides), moderation of studies, analysis and reporting
Product design - Mobile telecomms, handling equipment. Including initial user research, design development, specification and evaluation
Design of work and workplaces - mail processing workstations, Bureau de Change