Ergonomics in design: solutions and proposals for a better interface with the user

We all use products on a daily basis. This interaction, no matter how simple or complex, must meet users’ expectations and needs in a safe, efficient and pleasurable way. Although this basic principle is basic, interaction between humans and the product/machine does not always occur. According to Karwowski et al. (2011a, b), the application of ergonomic principles and knowledge to the design process helps meet these users’ expectations, thus reducing the risk of malfunction or failures and the potential for accidents and contributes to the product being more readily acceptable. The content of this special edition of TIES – Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Sciences comprises two issues. In the first, there are seven articles and in the second, eight. The aims of this special edition of TIES are to discuss the relationship between design and ergonomics in the search for solutions and proposals that will enhance both levels of user satisfaction and efficiency in the use of products and systems, and will lead to an increase in comfort and an assurance of safety both under normal conditions and in the presumed misuse of products and systems. In the context applied to products and systems, Ergonomics is understood as a discipline that focuses on the study of the interactions of humans with artefacts from the perspective of science, engineering, design, technology and the management of humancompatibility systems (Karwowski 2005). Ergonomics uses a holistic approach, centred on the user, which considers within its range of action physical, cognitive, social, organisational, environmental and other relevant factors, using appropriate methodologies, to improve design. Thus, Ergonomics is involved in the various decision-making stages when a product is being developed which leads to its having a key role in improving the performance of products. The items of knowledge that come from Ergonomics also consider users’ individual differences and their different characteristics, such as gender, age, physical and mental conditions, etc. The articles in these issues discuss various topics and provide a good reference guide to the breadth of applying Ergonomics when seeking solutions and proposals for a better interface of the product with the user. In the first issue of this special edition, various aspects related to human beings’ communication process are discussed. Teaching is an activity that has accompanied human beings from the earliest prehistoric records. In particular, the application of ergonomics in the field of education is very extensive. Special attention should be given to methods and tools for teaching and learning. New technologies that use motivational aspects, such as games, are being applied successfully and their interfaces analysed (see Rebelo and Filgueiras). A method for teaching physics to indigenous children has been developed by seeking to design an inclusive education program (see Smith-Jackson, Evia, Tabor and Benson). Multidisciplinary aspects and the globalisation of markets have affected the teaching of Ergonomics on Design courses. Di Bucchianico and Camplone introduce a didactic experience that allows young designers to develop their own strategies