bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor-Unit Recruitment in the Trapezius Muscle during a Computer Typing Task
Authors: Forsman Mikael , Birch Laila , Zhang Qiuxia , Kadefors Roland
Published: January 2012

The possible linkage between intense computer work and chronic shoulder pain was studied on the basis of the motor-unit overuse theory. By using a four-lead wire-electrode intramuscular electromyography was recorded from the upper trapezius muscle of seven healthy subjects during a computer typing task. The task consisted of text entry from a manuscript. Motor unit action potentials (MUAPs) were tracked using an automatic classification program with possibilities for manual corrections. The duration of the work task was 10 min. After 5 minutes typing, one surface and three intramuscular EMG channels were sampled in periods of 20 seconds each minute (5 periods in total). For the surface EMG, the maximum voluntary electrical activation was measured, for normalization, in the end of the experiment. One to twelve units were identified per subject (median 6, totally 40). In six of the seven subjects at least half of the motor units were identified in all five minutes (in total, 22 of 34). In the seventh subject, four units that were identified in minutes 6 and 7 were substituted by five others that were active in the remaining three minutes. The surface EMG RMS values ranged from 1.3 to 8.5 %MVE (mean, 4.7). Since many of the motor units were active in all periods, the basic hypothesis was supported, but since others were active in a subset of the periods, it is was concluded that long time measurements are needed to anatomize the recruitment pattern during enduring work with computer input devices.
Tissue Oxygenation and EMG during Computer Mouse Work and Submaximal Isometric Wrist Extensions
Authors: Nielsen Pernille Kofoed , Laursen Bjarne , Murthy Gita , Jensen Bente Rona
Published: January 2012

Sufficient tissue oxygenation (TO2) is essential for muscle function in general. However, it is not known to which extent TO2 is influenced during different low-level contractions. The aim was to study the interaction between EMG activity and TO2 during computer mouse tasks and submaximal isometric contractions at load levels corresponding to levels that occur during repetitive work in industry.

Eight healthy subjects performed multidirectional computer mouse tasks (40 and 60 clicks/min) with the right arm. In addition, 1 -minute isometric wrist extensions at 5, 15 and 25 %Maximal Voluntary Contraction (MVC) were performed. Further, a 15 %MVC wrist extension until exhaustion was performed. Near-infrared spectroscopy was used to measure TO2 of m. extensor carpi radialis. EMG was recorded from m. extensor carpi radialis and m. extensor digitorum.

During mousing the EMGRMS activity was in generel higher during the high speed compared to the low speed task. Muscular load of the forearm has isometric characteristics to a high degree. No significant difference in TO2 was found between the two mousing speeds. During the isometric contractions EMGRMS increased and TO2 decreased with increasing contraction level. The mean endurance time at the 15 %MVC wrist extension was 22.6 min. The average exerted force remained constant though fluctuations in the force increased as a function of time, indicating impaired force control due to development of fatigue. During the endurance task the EMGRMS activity increased and the EMGMPF decreased, indicating electromyographic signs of muscle fatigue. Within less than one minute TO2 decreased significantly relative to resting values. No further decrease was seen during the endurance contraction. Point of exhaustion was not related either to a gradual or a sudden decrease in TO2. Although the average exerted force remained constant, sudden changes in EMGRMS was seen in some subjects especially in the last part of the contraction, indicating changes in force distribution between muscles. This is assumed to be a fatigue-preventing mechanism. These changes in extensor carpi radialis muscle activity were reflected as opposite changes in TO2-levels, A cross correlation analysis showed a correlation between in extensor carpi radialis muscle activity and TO2, time displacement=3.4 sec, r=−0.31. This indicates that the changes in EMG activity precede the changes in TO2-level.

In conclusion, TO2 was inversely related to muscle activity and exerted force. A steady state level below resting level of TO2 was found during the prolonged fatiguing isometric contraction. Point of exhaustion could not be explained either by a gradual or a sudden decrease in TO2.
Factors to Consider in Selecting Appropriate Computer Monitor Placement
Authors: Sommerich Carolyn M. , Joines Sharon MB , Psihogios Jennie P.
Published: January 2012

Two studies were designed to explore visual and musculoskeletal strain associated with computer monitor placement. Effects of viewing angle, monitor size, keyboard familiarity, and task were studied in a lab setting. Outcome measures assessed visual and musculoskeletal strain, preference, and performance. To follow-up, participants in a field study were exposed to two of the placements tested in the lab. Preferences were split, but for most field subjects matched the placement associated with the least neck discomfort. Results of these studies and others suggest that, in consideration of individual differences and task requirements, the best solution may be providing users with a range of placement options and the ability and training to explore them.
Effect of Four Computer Keyboards in Computer Users with Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Tittiranonda Pat , Rempel David , Armstrong Thomas , Burastero Stephen
Published: January 2012

Eighty computer users with musculoskeletal disorders participated in a six-month, randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the effects of four computer keyboards on clinical findings, pain severity, functional hand status, and comfort. The alternative geometry keyboards tested were: the Apple Adjustable Keyboard™ [kb1], Comfort Keyboard System™ [kb2], Microsoft Natural Keyboard™ [kb3] and placebo. Compared to placebo, kb3 and to a lesser extent kb1 groups demonstrated an improving trend in pain severity and hand function following six months of keyboard use. However, there was no corresponding consistent improvement in clinical findings in the alternative geometry keyboard groups compared to the placebo group. Overall, there was a significant correlation between improvement of pain severity and greater satisfaction with the keyboards. These results provide evidence that keyboard users may experience a reduction in hand pain after several months of use of some alternative geometry keyboards.
Effects of an Ergonomics Intervention among Hospital Billing Department Employees
Authors: Evanoff Bradley A. , Button Jeanne H. , Wolf Laurie D.
Published: January 2012

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a frequent problem among office workers. We studied the effects of an ergonomics intervention among employees of a large hospital billing department.

Methods: This prospective intervention trial involved employee education sessions on office ergonomics and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, plus workstation modifications.

Results: 115 employees of a hospital billing department participated in the initial program and 59 completed 4-year follow-up questionnaire. The 4-year post-intervention period was marked by decreased risk of OSHA-reportable injury (RR=0.45, 95% CI 0.26-0.78). Total lost days declined from 63.2 to 6.4 per 100 full-time equivalent (FTE). Annual workers' compensation costs declined from $432/FTE to $185/FTE. These improvements were significantly greater than those seen in the hospital as a whole. The proportion of employees with musculoskeletal symptoms declined on short-term follow-up. These changes in injury and cost occurred in the setting of increasing job demands and decreasing job satisfaction.

Conclusion: Substantial reductions in work-related musculoskeletal disorders were seen following an ergonomics intervention among office workers.
The Application of Human Performance Models in the Design and Operation of Complex Systems
Authors: Campbell Gwendolyn E. , Cannon-Bowers Janis A.
Published: January 2012

For years, systems designers have used models of hardware and software to support the system design process. Recently, there have been technological advances in modeling all aspects of human performance. The paper will describe four specific applications of human performance modeling that we are exploring to support both the design and operation of complex systems, such as future Navy ships. Specifically, this technology can be used during system design to generate team design concepts, to provide decision support for systems engineers trying to follow a human engineering process, and to allow simulation-based evaluation of human performance. During systems operation, this technology can be used to provide decision support, adaptive aiding, and automation to the operator(s). We believe that human performance modeling technology has matured to the point where it can play a significant role in both the design and operation of future complex systems, reducing both cost and risk.
Design of New Food Technology: Social Shaping of Working Environment
Authors: Broberg Ole
Published: January 2012

A five-year design process of a continuous process wok has been studied with the aim of elucidating the conditions for integrating working environment aspects. The design process is seen as a network building activity and as a social shaping process of the artefact. A working environment log is suggested as a tool designers can use to integrate considerations of future operators' working environment.
Ergonomics as Mediator within the Product Design Process
Authors: Bruder Ralph
Published: January 2012

As a consequence of an increasing complexity of products using procedures a human-centered-design process is more and more important. This thesis can be based on the success of user friendly products on market but also by looking at new regulations concerning human-centered design (e.g. pr EN-ISO 13407). Within an user-centered design process there is a need for a continuos balancing between interests of users and producers. This mediating role can be fulfilled by persons with an ergonomic background. The potentiality of ergonomic for the initialization, accompaniment and evaluation of an user-centered design process was demonstrated within the product development of a new electronic pipette.
A Morphing Method for Shape Generation in Product Design
Authors: Hsiao Shih-Wen
Published: January 2012

A morphing method for product design is proposed in this study. In this model, a feature-based method is first used to construct a CAD model of a product. The image perception of the product is then quantified by using ‘semantic difference (SD)’ and the relationships between the morphed shapes and image words are analyzed with ‘gray theory’. A consultative computer program is then constructed based on these basic data. With this program, the designer can start to develop design ideas and will quickly obtain a product form that fits the demanded image by inputting an image word. Though the form design for a LCD monitor is taken as an example in this study, this method can also be used to develop other products.
Urban Environmental Language and Spatial Organization
Authors: Nojima Vera Lúcia
Published: January 2012

In order to verify the incidence of some aspects related to communication in urban space studies, this paper approaches first the notions of perception and interpretation of cities in the works of the geographer, Milton Santos; of the architect, Gordon Cullen; of the urban designers, Kevin Lynch and Amos Rapoport, and the semiotics master, Lucrécia D'Aléssio Ferrara. The purpose is to characterize urban design as an interdisciplinary system of environmental communication. This system expresses the development of a field of design professions and the preparation of the professionals combining design knowledge and skills of different areas of design professions (urbanism, architecture, ergonomics and graphic design) with a general understanding of the communication and educational processes.

This paper aims to show that spatial organization and the circulation system can not be seen independent of environmental communication, which provides the information the users will need to solve the wayfind problems. Environmental education has to be based on perceptual, cognitive and behavioral development.
Biomechanics Web-Course: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Cheong Yuen-Keen , Harvey Craig M.
Published: January 2012

From ordering books to searching for cheap airline tickets, the Internet is infiltrating our daily lives. One place where its use is definitely exploding is in the classroom. The Internet affords the instructor the opportunity to provide interactive learning situations in place of more traditional passive methods. This paper discusses the development of an interactive web-based biomechanics module for an undergraduate Introduction to Ergonomics course. An exploratory study found that student performance on a test was equal regardless of whether they were self-taught using web-based material or the textbook. These initial results raise questions as to the characteristics of a successful web-based course.
HFES Members' and Students' Career Influences: A Survey
Authors: Martin David W. , Wogalter Michael S. , Yarbrough Meredith F.
Published: January 2012

Surveys were sent to 150 members and 150 student affiliates of HFES asking how they first learned about the field and what or who was the major influence in choosing their career. Approximately half learned about it as undergraduates and about a third as graduate students, usually from a professor. About a third learned about it during work or internship. The survey also asked respondents to indicate what examples they would use to represent the field to a naïve listener. Most frequently cited examples included applications in human-computer interaction, aviation/space, ground transportation, and the workplace.
About Company's Motive for Continuous Organizational Improvement a Structural, Methodical and Mental Approach
Authors: Ruhnau Juergen
Published: January 2012

Companies that have successfully aroused continuous organizational improvement processes considered structural, methodical and mental aspects. The improvement of sequences and processes could realized by business process reengineering approaches. The methods to manage and control improvement processes are borrowed from organizational design and Kaizen. And in the end the common generation of the understanding for the need for continuous improvement and for the motivation to act are mental requirements. The paper presents the results of a long term case study investigating a successful continuous organizational improvement project on a working system producing automotive components.
Intervention Research for Reducing Musculoskeletal Injuries
Authors: Carayon Pascale , Haims Marla C. , Hoonakker Peter L.T. , Swanson Naomi G.
Published: January 2012

One longitudinal intervention study was conducted at a government agency to examine the effectiveness of a macroergonomic approach for implementing work organization interventions aimed at reducing musculoskeletal injuries. The intervention used a variety of methods, including worker participation, job enrichment, and teamwork to achieve a successful implementation. In this paper, results are presented on the questionnaire data. Results show the importance of psychosocial work factors, such as group characteristics and concerns for job future.
Cross-Cultural Comparison of Company Organization Structure
Authors: Hamad Bakri Osman , Fröhner Klaus-Dieter
Published: January 2012

This study tends to quantify some differences of developed and developing countries in the field of human resources. Due to different social and cultural milieus, no global solution is available to fit each country. This fact necessitates a special examination for countries according to their cultural context. In this part of the study, the cultural and social influential elements of the working force in a developing country were examined. The specific elements of satisfaction and production driving force with accordance with the motivation factors were defined. Variables that are most associated with individual performance, behavior and social structure that govern the inter-personnel relations were specified.
Cultural Aspects in Learning Organizations Design
Authors: Fialho Gustavo Loureiro , dos Santos Neri , Fialho Francisco Antonio Pereira
Published: January 2012

Century's end is being signaled by a new way of thinking and acting. In order to survive, organizations need to be contemporaneous, adapting themselves to needed changes. In modern organizational environment is more and more evident the need of being competitive and innovative. Every company, in order to attain their goals, must be prepared to implement new proceedings for following the daily occurring transformations. Downsizing, re-structuring, re-engineering, and other efforts did not answer the question on how to keep organizations apt for following this continuous changing flow. Learning Organizations are a new proposal for answering these questions. The need for flexibility demands a continuous knowledge acquisition of changes occurring in the environment and the cognitive ability for processing this information. This paper intends, in a first moment, to present an organization model based in Maturana and Varela autopoiesis theory, and then, explore the possibilities of organization learning.
Macroergonomic Paradox of Enterpreneurship and Economic Renewal
Authors: Pacholski Leszek M.
Published: January 2012

The reorientation of the production enterprise management strategy in the economically undeveloped countries is accompanied by the temporary phenomenon of a macroergonomic paradox. It consists in the worsening of the ‘ergonomicity’ level in the production system of an enterprise in spite of the improvement in the economic condition of a company. However, sustaining a positive economic tendency results in improving the above-mentioned level of ‘ergonomicity’. In the long run the process of influencing the ‘ergonomicity’ level by an economic transformation is characterised by the phenomenon of ‘alternating’ periods of paradox and rationality.
Experts versus Participants
Authors: Karltun Johan , Eklund Jörgen
Published: January 2012

Participation has been of great interest in organizational development as well as in the field of ergonomics and total quality management (TQM) for many years. However, many aspects of participation are still not well understood. The aim of this paper is to contribute towards a better understanding of the expert versus the participant in change and how these relate to each other. The conclusions drawn are that the expert and the participant build their legitimacy in change on different knowledge and political bases. The expert participates in change on his professional basis, representing an outside perspective, mutually related to management and not personally affected by the change. The participant bases his participation on an extensive knowledge of the workplace, delegated power, subordinate position towards management and he represents an inside perspective as he is personally affected by the change.
The Decline of the Hierarchy and the Problem of the of Modern Organization
Authors: Sacramento Maria Tereza , Gontijo Leila A.
Published: January 2012

This article will evaluate the question of authority. Firstly, it will review the concept of organisation and the concept of the hierarchy of power, and secondly it will take from the well - known theories of organisations, the concept of authority as an active principal of equilibrium and order. This question begins from the problems which arise from changing the process, and the expectation of adapting the productive processes to a global level. Putting in place these models of management transference, their rapid absorption and resistance can have the effect of destabilising economies and the way in which they develop.
The Function of Corporate Identity in Organizational Culture
Authors: Kirwin Andrew
Published: January 2012

The Organizational Culture model, derived from the Socio-technical systems model, is a tetrahedron of socialization (human factors), organization, technology and identity, existing in a sphere that represents the external environment. While the facets of organization, technology and human factors have been explored in depth; there has been little focus on the importance of corporate cultural identity (where corporate means organizationally pervasive) in establishing cultural functionality. The original Park Hill data was reanalyzed to test if there is any significant, quantifiable association between cultural identity and organizational functionality. Determination of such an association would provide a foundation for new methods of both organizational and community assessment and change management.
Occupational Health and Safety Management as an Element of Integrated Management Systems in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises
Authors: Wittmann Andreas , Hackl-Gruber Walter
Published: January 2012

Small and medium-sized enterprises often implement Integrated Management Systems with the elements occupational health and safety, quality management and environmental management in order to avoid redundancies and to harness synergies among these matters. For the first step, a theoretical model for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Management is developed. This goal of this model is to introduce a holistic approach to business management. The characteristics of the prospective OHS Management Model are worked out based upon OHS's legal obligations. Further contents of three health concepts already developed in the field of work and organizational psychology are added. In the second step of empirical investigations of how OHS Management Systems are embedded in and connected with Quality and Environmental Management Systems in small and medium-sized companies, a series of case studies were carried out.
Chances and Risks of Process-Oriented Integrated Management Systems
Authors: Winzer Petra , Braunholz Helge
Published: January 2012

In this paper we describe a method for building and actualisation of an integrated process-oriented management system. The idea is a generic approach, with the object to create management systems, being in accordance to the demands of different stakeholders. This is achieved by systemizing and focusing of the demands in the forefield of the management system creation process. The described method was succesfully applicated in several enterprises. One field of research in our special subject is the development of general instruments and models to help the enterprises in all phases of this generic approach.
From Quality Management System to the Integrated Management in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the Field of Manufacturing
Authors: Neef Guenther , Wieczorek Lothar
Published: January 2012

The successful implementation of a QMS opens a variety of advantages to keep up competitive positions. To benefit fully from these potential strengths of the company it is important in the next years to implement integrated management systems, planned and implemented by participation of employees. The employers commitment is based upon integration and co-operation from the very beginning.
Evaluation of Productivity before and after an Ergonomic Intervention
Authors: de Guimarães Lia Buarque Macedo , Fischer Daniela , Ely Fabiane , Diehl Carlos Alberto
Published: January 2012

This paper analyses the effect of an ergonomic intervention on the producivity of an electrical meter manufacture. Intevention included workstation and environmental analysis and design, work organization and product (the electrical meter) analysis and design. Problems were raised and commented with workers and managers. Solutions were discussed and two major decisions were taken: the assembly line would be replaced by a cell manufacturing system and workers would be trained for multifunctionality, i.e., they would be trained to work in all sections of the plant. Productivity tended to increase depending on the assemblage complexity and plant layout. Workers reported less fatigue and hiher motivation after ergonomic intervention.
An Analysis on a Middle Management Aspect by the Method of Macro Logic
Authors: Ebukuro Rinzou
Published: January 2012

The investigation has been made on the middle level managers in very rough style only asking [Please describe your ideas or opinion how to improve this serious company situation]. An operational matrix regarding the company management using the key words extracted from reply sheet was composed for checking their consciousness on costing and quality control, since the company was facing very serious financial states, and the problem of the figure of products defective. Only 6-vague reply among 86 regarding the costing and no reply on the quality control were found in their description. Five years after of this investigation the brilliant history of this company was closed. The situation is analyzed and discussed on the theory of macro logic. The operational matrix composed in such a way may bring out the managers hidden unconscious mentarity on the operational management.
Analysis of Motivational Issues in the Work Environment – A Case Study from the Banking Sector
Authors: de Guimarães Lia Buarquc Macedo , Fogliatto Flavio S. , Belmonte Flavio
Published: January 2012

This study analyzes the relationship between people and their work environment. More specifically the study concentrates on elements responsible for the motivation and satisfaction of individuals in their workplace. A case study from the banking sector illustrates the discussion, being structured as follows. We start by collecting and analyzing data on the current working conditions; employees are surveyed using questionnaires for data collection. Next, items to be modified for working conditions improvement are identified. Finally, improvement strategies are outlined and implemented. A second survey is conducted on the same employees to identify the set of items that most influenced their attitude regarding their workplace. Multivariate statistical analyses techniques were used in the data analysis. Conclusions are drawn on the influence of improvements on the level of motivation and satisfaction of employees regarding their workplace.
Traffic Safety Sceneries in a Service Company: A Macroergonomic Model
Authors: Petzhold Mário Fernando , Preuss Miriam Raja Gabaglia
Published: January 2012

The present study employed the model of the Competence Circle to evaluate behavioral and attitudinal elements involved in employees' competence for driving. Following a Decision Theory model, the initial situation was assessed and values and goals were considered, aiming at desired final results.
Field Evaluation of an Intelligent Tutoring System for Teaching Problem-Solving Skills in Transfusion Medicine
Authors: Obradovich Jodi Heinz , Smith Philip J. , Guerlain Stephanie A. , Rudman Sally , Smith Jack W.
Published: January 2012

A previously reported study indicated that, when used by an instructor as a tool to assist with tutoring in a class laboratory setting, use of the Transfusion Medicine Tutor (TMT) resulted in improvements in antibody identification performance of 87-93% (p<.001). Based on input from teachers requesting that TMT be designed for use without the presence of an instructor, a second study on the use of TMT without instructor assistance found that performance improved by 64-66% (p<.001). Thus, under “controlled” field study conditions, the data indicate that TMT can be used very effectively. As a follow-up, we therefore conducted a third study to assess the perceived usefulness and satisfaction with TMT of teachers and students in an “uncontrolled” setting, namely when they chose whether, when and how to use it on their own. TMT was mailed to 7 sites for this evaluation. In exchange for a free copy of the kit, the instructors (and their students) were asked to fill out questionnaires. Results of these questionnaires are summarized.
Making Instructions Visible: Implications for Training and Interface Design
Authors: Kontogiannis Tom , Linou Nadia
Published: January 2012

Forcing operators to comply to a training method may increase workload in remembering instructions and deny opportunities for exploiting other strategies. A means for increasing learning flexibility would be to manipulate the design of the user interface in ways that prompt trainees to recall past instructions or develop their own strategies. An experimental study is described that manipulates the ratio of visible instructions on the interface to the expository (or verbal) instructions. A new interface has been tested that presented several “tale-tell” signs to help trainees discover diagnostic rules. A group of subjects T(new), that used the new interface, became more accurate in fault-diagnosis than another group T(old) that practised on a conventional panel; both groups were provided with the same technical story. On transfer to two other tasks, the T(new) group maintained a better performance to the T(old) group, but only for a subset of the fault scenarios; superior performance was also observed in relation to a third group trained in heuristics. Finally, the new interface enabled the T(new) group to achieve equivalent performance to a fourth group that received both a technical story and a set of heuristics but used the conventional panel.
Simulating Spatial Memory Challenges Confronting Astronauts
Authors: Shebilske Wayne , Tubre Travis , Willis Tim , Hanson Amber , Oman Charles , Ericson Jason
Published: January 2012

We tested 3D spatial memory for 59 college students in a 50-cm x 50-cm x 50-cm cube. An aperture in the center of each of the cube's six surfaces revealed a picture on a computer monitor. The pictures' locations and orientations changed to simulate multiple perspectives. A pre-trial icon indicated the simulated body orientation, entrance hatch (the picture behind the head), and the target. A trial began with no pictures, and the trainee pressed a key to indicate the target's remembered position. A trail concluded with pictures, and the trainee pressed a key to indicate the target's actual position. Visual orientation illusions suggested that supine trainees should perform better. Memory errors did not support this prediction. Groups who started erect and switch to supine were similar to groups that did the opposite, except for the first 12 trials in which the Erect-Supine Group was better.
Pilot Situation Awareness Training in General Aviation
Authors: Endsley Mica R. , Garland Daniel J.
Published: January 2012

While the majority of research on the topic of situation awareness has been focused on designing better systems, significant interest also exists in finding ways to improve SA through training. This paper describes an ongoing program that is directed at developing programs for training SA in general aviation pilots. Factors that have been found to pose problems for SA in pilots are reviewed and directions are established for creating programs for improving SA through training.
The Diagnostic Utility of Fuzzy System Modeling for Application in Training Systems
Authors: Campbell Gwendolyn Elizabeth , Buff Wendi Lynn , Bolton Amy Elizabeth
Published: January 2012

While there are many different computational modeling techniques capable of predicting human decision-making outcomes, training applications require modeling techniques that are also diagnostic of human decision-making processes. Multiple linear regression, a commonly used modeling technique in Psychology, makes overly restrictive processing assumptions such as that of additivity. A relatively new modeling approach, fuzzy system modeling, bears some striking similarities to current theories of categorization and cognition. In this research, we compare the diagnostic utility of multiple linear regression to fuzzy system models. Specifically, decision-making data are modeled using either linear regression or fuzzy system models, and trainee models are compared to an expert model built with the same technique. Discrepancies between the trainee and expert models are noted and qualitative feedback is generated. The diagnostic utility of each technique is evaluated by measuring changes in performance after model-based feedback is provided to the trainees.
Empirical Validation of Team Training ID-Guidelines
Authors: van Berlo Marcel P. W.
Published: January 2012

With respect to team training, traditional instructional design (ID) guidelines, mainly aimed at training at the individual level, seem to be insufficient given the different nature and characteristics of teams and team performance. In order to provide adequate support, guidelines have been developed supporting the analysis of team tasks, and the design of team training scenarios. This paper discusses an approach to the empirical validation of these guidelines and the implications for further research on ID for team training.
Cognitive Engineering of Training for Adaptive Battlefield Thinking
Authors: Ross Karol G. , Pierce Linda G.
Published: January 2012

Individual military decision-makers and the military staff, as a decision-making team, are currently under increased pressure to make quick assessments more often and under more unusual conditions than ever before. Advances in information technology, changing operational missions, and re-designed, “flattened” organizations all contribute to the new performance requirements. U.S. Army leadership has defined the general skill underlying the performance requirements as “adaptive thinking.” Our goal was to further the systematic and early development of that ability during officers' careers. We used a learning model derived from cognitive theory and a descriptive model of military expertise to engineer training interventions. We developed two training interventions that embody the learning model in this specific domain of expertise. We also identified research needed to further clarify how the learning model should be used in training development in the military as well as in other training settings.
TQM in Germany – Experiences and Perspectives Concerning Ergonomics
Authors: Zink Klaus J.
Published: January 2012

Discussions of TQM and Ergonomics mainly refer to continuous improvement and people involvement based on respective forms of work organization. Concerning TQM one has to state that German companies started quite late with such activities. Whereas employee involvement was much earlier part of other concepts, which did in most cases not survive due to the character of (timely) limited and fragmented programmes. In introducing a European Excellence Model the idea of TQM got an increased interest in Germany. Therefore people involvement and respective forms of work organization are part of this development - but also other ergonomic topics. The use of this model for the promotion of occupational health and safety is also shown.
Design Reviews for Robustness in Product Development
Authors: Kammerlind Peter , Persson Per , Ekros Jens-Peder
Published: January 2012

Today Quality Function Deployment (QFD) is a well-known method to understand customers needs and to translate them into design attributes. This makes QFD very helpful in the product development process (PDP). This paper promotes Design Reviews (DRs) as an important part of the PDP. DR together with QFD becomes an interesting approach to achieve robustness in product development. This is especially important when product concepts are transferred between different factories, in different parts of the world, within the same company. This is illustrated with a case study in the manufacturing industry.
The Effects of Individual Differences and Training on Paced and Unpaced Aircraft Visual Inspection Performance
Authors: Chen Stacey , Gramopadhye Anand , Melloy Brian
Published: January 2012

The aircraft maintenance system is a complex one with many interrelated human and machine components. Inspection is the first critical step in locating and identifying non-conformities that are later removed or fixed as part of maintenance. Thus, inspection constitutes a critical step in the overall maintenance process. Significantly, 90% of all inspection, which is visual, is conducted by human inspectors. Moreover aircraft inspection is often performed under varying pacing conditions. If we are to provide the general public with a safe and reliable air transportation system, inspection must be performed effectively, efficiently and consistently over time. However, past studies in human inspection have reported large individual differences in inspection performance. Even though it is difficult to eliminate errors completely, continuing emphasis must be placed on identifying interventions to reduce errors and improve consistency in performance.
The Use of a High Fidelity Simulator to Improve Aircraft Inspection Performance: The ASSIST Program
Authors: Gramopadhye Anand K. , Melloy Brian , Him Hector , Koenig Scott , Nickles George , Bingham Jamie , Kauffman Jillian , Thaker Jatin , Master Reena
Published: January 2012

The aircraft maintenance industry is a complex system consisting of several interrelated human and machine components. The linchpin of this system, however, is the human. Recognizing this, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has pursued human factors related research. In the maintenance arena the research has focused on the aircraft inspection process and the aircraft inspector. Training has been identified as the primary intervention strategy to improve the quality and reliability of aircraft inspection. In response to this need, the paper outlines the development of a high fidelity inspection training simulator (ASSIST: Automated System of Self Instruction for Specialized Training) focused on improving aircraft inspection performance and ultimately aviation safety. The research was funded by the Federal Aviation Administration and conducted by the Advanced Training Systems Laboratory of the Department of Industrial Engineering, Clemson University and was conducted in cooperation with Delta Airlines and Lockheed Martin Aircraft Center.
Human Interaction in the Manufacturing Design Process
Authors: Getty Robert L.
Published: January 2012

The human element pervades all company processes, from proposal, design, manufacturing, quality control and product support. Cost effective processes can be best achieved when the human element is totally integrated with technology. Traditional human engineering design methodologies applied to company processes optimizes the relationship of people that comprise the organization with the technology that is the foundation of the organization. Process ownership is essential for the achievement of the goals of quality. This ownership occurs by applying macroergonomics precepts by integration of the personnel system with the technological factors to achieve product delivery to a satisfied customer within the external environment of market forces. The application of human engineering design principles will be discussed followed by the quality focus of the LMTAS company processes. This paper will review LMTAS quality goals to show the elements that form the foundation of The Fighter Enterprise to make it the contractor of choice for tactical fighter aircraft.
Design Cost Savings and Ergonomics
Authors: Riley Michael W. , Dhuyvetter Robert L.
Published: January 2012

Designing products includes many issues which have an impact on the life cycle of a product. Design costs include the cost of the design for the product's functional needs and the cost of the design for associated needs. Examples of associated needs are design for assembly, design for serviceability, design for compatibility, and design for manufacturability. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate how applying appropriate ergonomic principles during design can reduce many life cycle costs. Relating potential cost savings attributed to ergonomics can be useful as a tool in decision support systems. An example is used to demonstrate the range of potential impacts of ergonomic driven design strategies. Reducing costs in one design focus area often impacts another design focus area negatively. By estimating the status (best to worst) of the current design performance measures and normalizing results, the impacts of changing design parameters are seen.
Integration of Information Technology and TQM
Authors: Najjar Lotfollah , Bishu Ram R.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine if IS managers were familiar with the basic concepts /tools and potential benefits of TQM. This was accomplished by administering a questionnaire to a sample of IS managers who currently work for business units. The results have implications for both IS managers and researchers. IS managers were familiar with the language of TQM, but did not really understand its underlying philosophies and/or principles. The IS manager must be willing to commit to the TQM strategy for the long run. Also, most IS managers believed that top management leadership is a critical factor in their success.
Service Quality Starts with Employees
Authors: Getty Juliet M. , Getty Robert L.
Published: January 2012

There are several integral steps involved in moving form the employees' work environment toward an increase in the profitability of a company. A high quality physical and cognitive workplace leads to satisfied employees who are capable of better performance. Better performance, combined with improved attitudes transfers itself into quality service delivery. Customers naturally respond to better service and empathy from employees with their willingness to purchase the service. “Internal” customers, the employees, respond with their willingness to provide the service. It is proposed, therefore, that an organization's effort to improve the financial bottom line must first focus on its internal customers before it can expect its external customers to respond. The utilization of ergonomic precepts enhances the service delivery personnel/customer interface and produces processes that result in satisfied customers.
Participatory Approaches to Work Systems and Organizational Design
Authors: Brown Ogden
Published: January 2012

Participatory approaches to work systems and organizational design are identified and examined. Each approach advocates worker involvement and organizational change. The development of participation in the workplace is discussed, and the evolution of participatory practices in work systems and organizational design is presented, from early research on decision making, through the participative management and human relations movements, to the organization-wide high involvement ergonomics of today. Issues arising from the implementation of high involvement ergonomics are also identified.
Understanding the User in Electronic Commerce
Authors: Bracci Margherita , Parlangeli Oronzo , Mariani Michele , Bagnara Sebastiano
Published: January 2012

Electronic commerce has rapidly become a reality giving rise to significant changes in the relationship between vendor/client and thus deserving a deep analysis. In the present scenario, businesses are called upon to provide products that are becoming more and more like services, and the client is invited to enter into a form of relationship marketing. In reference to this aspect of the development of electronic commerce, the present paper proposes a taxonomy of user/client behavior with reference to three factors a) the behavior of users in regard to the supplier of products b) the behavior of users within the Net c) the way in which users process the information content of messages elaborated by product supplier.
Driving Macroergonomics Home: A Community Ergonomics Conceptualization
Authors: Schmitz William
Published: January 2012

The proliferation of medical device technology is profound. Hospitals and clinics traditionally “housed” medical technologies and the technological environments (ICUs, ORs, and ERs). Today, medical technologies have transferred into homes (hospice care, home chemotherapy, and WEB TV cardiac rehabilitation). While the goal of macroergonomics is to fully harmonize work systems at both the macro-and microergonomic levels, it fails to address the service interfaces of a community based health care system. The integration of concepts from macroergonomics and community ergonomics is proposed here to help health care professionals deliver quality services to patients and clients. An example of the community ergonomics process, from the home health care perspective, is presented.
Future Trends in Management of Hazardous Envhionments - Panel Summary
Authors: Smith Thomas J.
Published: January 2012

Coming decades almost certainly will see a continuing process of change in the nature and distribution of workplace and environmental safety hazards and risks. This session discusses future trends in the management of hazardous environments, particularly in terms of how such management can benefit from the application of macroergonomic principles and methods, Thomas Albin points out that although the application of ergonomics will remain a key strategy for abating musculoskeletal problems in the workplace, there is need for a broader systems approach to ergonomics program design. Michael Smith deals with new types and patterns of hazards and risks related to the emergence of new technologies. Markku Mattila addresses future trends in management of workplace hazards from a Scandinavian and European perspective, including the integration of ergonomics and quality management. Victor Koscheyev and Gloria Leon discuss future needs and trends in systems management of large-scale disasters and in the psychological consequences of human exposure to such disasters. Thomas Smith notes that a number of prevailing concepts and practices in the safety profession remain contrary to the principle of ‘fitting the job to the worker,’ and that perhaps the greatest challenge facing the safety and hazard management field in the decades to come will be to broaden the acceptance and application of this principle to enhance safety performance in the workplace.
Advancing Socio-Technical Systems Design Via the Living Laboratory
Authors: McNeese Michael D. , Perusich Karl , Rentsch Joan R.
Published: January 2012

The natural, living world provides the backdrop for the practice of participatory ergonomics. By addressing the salient issues of complexity, context, distributed cognition, and team situational awareness in this world, the advocation of the Living Laboratory concept is presented. Socio-technical systems design is reflected through the joint integration of various Living-Lab outcomes such as Fields of practice, tools, technologies, qualitative models, scaled worlds, and in situ evaluations. A wholistic approach is derived by looking at these outcomes as a basis to bind together the cognitive, social, technological, and organizational constraints that design must consider to be effective.
Nursing in the New Millenium: Touching Patients' Lives Through Computers
Authors: Moore Shirley M. , Visovsky Constance
Published: January 2012

Common nursing functions, previously done in face-to-face interactions, are beginning to be done using computer interactions, thus changing the work environment of nurses. This paper reports experiences from a series of projects about the potential impact of electronic care delivery systems on nurses' work systems. Nurses' attitudes towards technology, values central to nursing practice and nursing functional roles are important factors to consider when designing computerized nursing care delivery systems.