Workplaces, workstations, equipment and work tasks designed around the needs of users are more effective, better accepted and improve employee wellbeing. Accessibility for people with disabilities is also improved.

Our approach has three main strands:

Research

Good research provides a sound foundation for any project, providing a thorough understanding of the users and tasks. Methods we use include task analysis, observation, questionnaires, interviews and user workshops. Where appropriate, we also conduct detailed studies on physical aspects such as job fatigue, task repetition, manual handling and working posture.

Test

Testing ensures design concepts are on the right track. It can be done at any stage of the project and provides critical information to guide design direction. The methods we use are expert reviews and user testing. Testing with users is the most robust way of assessing fit and usability and can be carried out using ‘quick and dirty’ mock-ups or detailed prototypes depending on the stage of the project. When testing with users we observe to spot problems and log the time to complete tasks, note errors made and collect user feedback via rating scales and comments. Where appropriate, we include people with disabilities amongst the test participants.

Design

Using findings from research and testing combined with detailed knowledge of ergonomics standards and guidelines we provide you with clear principles for design. For example:

1. •workstations - component layout, critical reach and access dimensions;
   

2. •equipment - key dimensions, user interface, information design, control/display features;
   

3. •workplaces - work flows, layout, space requirements; 
   

4. •work tasks - operating methods to increase efficiency and minimise errors, acceptable loads and repetition rates.
   

Examples include:

Posting label redesign.  View example

Post Office counter.  View example

Automated mail sequencing.  View example

Workplace assessment and redesign.  View example

Also:

Engineering maintenance tasks: space requirements guidelines.

Touchscreen system for retail banking.

Design development of mail delivery preparation workstation.