bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Errors in Searching for Abstraction Hierarchy Information
Authors: Burns Catherine M.
Published: January 2012

The abstraction hierarchy (Rasmussen, 1985) is a modelling framework proposed for the design of displays to aid problem-solving. The model links information along two dimensions — means-end links of abstraction, and part-whole links of decomposition. While these links connect the model, little research has directly explored the perceptual support of these links. Based on one abstraction hierarchy for a simulated power plant, we designed three graphical displays that provided differential perceptual support for means-end links. The displays provided space-time, only spatial, or only temporal integration of means-end links. Subjects performed a link-spanning information search task using one of the displays. Significant differences were found in search accuracy and in the types of errors that occurred when using the three displays. This research sheds light on the integration of means-end information in ecological displays and demonstrates a novel information search task for evaluating large ecological displays.
The Compatibility Effects between Cue and Stimulus
Authors: Liu Yanfang , Zhang Kan
Published: January 2012

Effects of symbolic compatibility between cue and stimulus were investigated within a precueing paradigm when there was no stimulus-response compatibility. The results showed that the compatibility effects appeared when the cue and stimulus was dimensional overlapped, and the effects were affected by the time duration between them and the probability of the cues.
Limitations of Using Mouse-over with Menu Item Selection
Authors: Chaparro Barbara S. , Minnaert Gary , Phipps Chad
Published: January 2012

Previous studies comparing input techniques with target acquisition tasks (where a user simply places the cursor over a designated target on the screen) found the mouse-over technique to be faster than point-and-click for targets of varying widths (Bohan & Chaparro, 1998, Bohan, Chaparro, and Scarlett 1998). This study investigated the use of the mouse-over and point-and-click techniques for a menu item selection task. Menu item selection is a more complex task than simple target acquisition because the user must read the menu text in order to select the appropriate item. An example of the use of such a task with the mouse-over technique is the Windows'98 “Start Menu”. In this study users were asked to find particular items in a cascading menu structure that consisted of a custom 4 times 3 hierarchy of common objects or locations, using either a mouse-over or point-and-click technique. The mouse-over technique required users to position the mouse over a menu item to expand the cascading menus. The user then clicked on a desired item in the third menu to select it. The point-and-click technique required the user to click the mouse on a menu item to expand the cascading menus and to click on an item on the third menu to select it. Mouse-over duration was set to 500 ms, which is comparable to the default duration for the Windows'98 Start menu. Results indicate that performance with the mouse-over technique took significantly longer than the traditional point-and-click technique (M = 5.25 seconds and M = 4.35 seconds respectively). In addition, error rates were greater with the mouse-over technique than with the point-and-click (4.95% and 2.60% respectively). Subjective data from the test participants indicate that they preferred the point-and-click technique to the mouse-over technique because they “felt more in control”. In addition, they found the “flashing menus” as they traversed the menus to the desired item using the mouse-over technique to be “distracting”. This is an interesting finding given that in target acquisition tasks, the mouse-over technique was found to be faster than the point-and-click technique. Designers need to carefully consider the tasks users will do with an application when considering the types of user interface interaction. These results show that mouse-over interaction may not be optimal in terms of task time, accuracy, and user satisfaction for menu item selection.
On Determining the Relative Importance of Word Processor Functions and Deficiencies
Authors: Levine Jonathan D. , Wogalter Michael S.
Published: January 2012

An initial group of participants identified features, functions, and problems encountered in two commonly used word-processing programs (MS Word and Corel WP). A second group of users assessed the relative importance of correcting existing problems and adding or enhancing existing features and functions. Problems and needed features were identified and believed to be important enough to Warrant the attention of software designers.
User-Centered Public Telephone Design - A Case Study
Authors: Chen Chien-Hsiung , Lai Chih-Chun , Hsu Chia-Ching , Lin Wei-Ping
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an innovative, user-centered public telephone design that facilitates users' visual and verbal interactions. The concept of user-centered design was incorporated in the overall iterative interaction design process. The authors hope that by using this user-centered public telephone, users are able to communicate with each other in a more efficient and effective way.
Depth vs Breath in the Arrangement of Web Links
Authors: Zaphiris Panayiotis G.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of depth and breadth in the arrangement of web link hierarchies on the user preference, response time and errors. An experiment is reported, where previous menu depth/breath tradeoff procedures are applied to the web link domain. The variables evaluated were five different web page linking strategies with varying depth and breadth. The results indicate that task completion time increases as the depth of the web site structure increases.
A Taxonomy of Technology: Defining Augmented Reality
Authors: Kalawsky R. S. , Stedmon A. W. , Hill K. , Cook C. A.
Published: January 2012

This paper outlines a functional decomposition of Augmented Reality (AR), from both a technological and human factors perspective, with a view to providing a coherent and structured framework for its development and evaluation in the future. Without a formal framework to underpin the description and development of AR technology, confusion may arise in comparing systems and applications. The proposed framework allows for the user's capabilities to be described in all their sensory detail, which, in turn, furnishes the taxonomy with a power to account for these in the development of advanced technologies. This top-level analysis can then be decomposed into discrete elements representing the enabling technologies that make up a given AR domain. This provides a much richer descriptive power within the framework and consistent criteria for comparing systems, applications and indeed conventional human-computer interfaces with AR. Furthermore, as it is a ‘user-centred’ approach, the framework does not assume that visual augmentation is the only means of providing an AR facility. Implicit in the framework is the notion that AR can be delivered through other sensory augmentation, even if the technical means is not available at the moment. In this way, the taxonomy offers a concise and precise means of categorising the technology, understanding the application, and, ultimately, supporting the user of an AR system.
Team Communications in a Virtual Environment
Authors: Cotton James E. , Lampton Donald R.
Published: January 2012

A networked simulation environment, known as the Fully Immersive Team Training (FITT) system, was employed to study team interactions in a virtual environment. The investigation was designed to evaluate the influence of various instructional strategies (demonstration, coaching, or replay) on team performance. Performance was evaluated on a variety of dimensions, with an emphasis on team communications. Results of the experiment indicated that teams receiving instruction in the form of an expert demonstration performed communications-related tasks in closer conformance with protocols than a control group receiving only an instruction manual. This may suggest that expert demonstrations are an effective strategy for training teams in communications tasks in virtual environments. The limitations of current communications-analysis strategies, and suggestions for their improvement, are discussed.
Simulator Sickness in a Virtual Environments Driving Simulator
Authors: Mourant Ronald R. , Thattacherry Thara R.
Published: January 2012

Some users of virtual environments experience adverse effects known as simulator sickness. Common symptoms are generally grouped into nausea, oculomotor discomfort, and disorientation. This research examined whether the severity and type of simulator sickness differs due to the type of driving environment or the gender of the driver. Three environments with variations in driver workload were developed: Highway, Rural, and City. Tests were conducted using Northeastern University's Virtual Driving Simulator. The Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) and postural stability tests, were used to gather data before and after participants drove the virtual environments based driving simulator. In comparison with past research, a different SSQ profile was found in that most of the symptoms reported were in the oculomotor discomfort category. This included eye strain, headaches, difficulty focusing, and blurred vision. Subjects who drove the Highway or Rural Road environments had more symptoms than those who drove the City environment. This indicates that vehicle velocity may be a factor in driving simulator sickness since subjects drove 60 mph in the Highway and Rural Road environments, but only 25 mph in the City environment. In both the before and after tests, females had less postural stability than males. Females also had a greater increase in oculomotor discomfort symptoms than males. Additional research is needed to determine why females experience more simulator sickness than males.
Use of Cognitive Walkthrough for Evaluation of Cockpit Design
Authors: Helander Martin G. , Skinnars Örjan
Published: January 2012

This paper outlines the use of cognitive walkthrough for design and evaluation of an airplane cockpit. Designers need methods that can help predicting the outcome of proposed design features at an early stage of design and later during design alterations and updating. Since the design of a military aircraft may take 10-15 years, it is important to develop evaluation methods other than user testing. This report proposes the use of Cognitive Walkthrough (CW) to evaluate the Pilot-Cockpit Interface.
Knowledge Representation for Engineering Design Based on a Cognitive Model
Authors: Schmidt Ludger , Luczak Holger
Published: January 2012

For the computer-support of knowledge-based human information processing, it is necessary to look at the representation of the information as well as designing an appropriate interface considering the ergonomics of human-computer interaction. Related to the established methodology for the design of technical systems, the cognitive model of an abstraction hierarchy was used as a framework for a task-appropriate knowledge representation in every phase of the design process. Based on a design task from the field of mechanical engineering, this concept was implemented as a software prototype. In an empirical study the practical applicability and usefulness of this concept were investigated. Trajectories of design problem solving were recorded and analyzed.
Motor Unit Activation Pattern of the Right Trapezius Muscle (Descending Part) during Resting, Typing and Tapping
Authors: Läubli Th , Schnoz M , Kitahara T , Wellig P , Krueger H
Published: January 2012

Neck pain is prevalent among computer users and it is postulated that it may be due to continuous firing of single motor units. This study describes the activation pattern of motor units in the trapezius muscle of healthy subjects and the following questions are examined: i) Do some persons not completely relax their neck muscles and does such a motor behavior induce constant activity of single motor units? ii) Does auditory attention or fast repetitive finger movement induce constant activity of single motor units in the trapezius muscle? Three male and three female subjects performed three tasks (resting, tapping, typing) during three minutes. Three channel intramuscular EMG was registered from the descending part of the trapezius muscle using four wire electrodes. The three minute recordings of each session were divided into ten second segments which were separately analyzed with the MAPQuest program. MAPQuest allows the complete decomposition using a modified Viterby algorithm. The results showed that the trapezius muscle was active in one subject while relaxing, in two subjects while inputting, and in five subjects while tapping. Long lasting single motor unit firing was observed in two subjects while inputting and in one subject while tapping. We conclude that in the trapezius muscle continuous motor unit firing may be induced by typical computer work and that its intensity depends both on individual and task characteristics. The measurement period was too short to draw definite conclusions and, for further discussion, it is necessary to evaluate longer periods.
Position of the Forearm and VDU Work
Authors: Aarås Arne
Published: January 2012

Workload when using a mouse as an input device was examined in a laboratory study. Two positions of the forearm were compared. One mouse gave an almost neutral position whereas the traditional mouse required a pronated one. The muscle load was recorded by electromyography (EMG) from the extensor digitorum communis, extensor carpi ulnaris, and trapezius muscles. The muscle load of the forearm was significantly less when using a mouse operated with an almost neutral position of the forearm compared with a pronated one.

In a prospective field study, a significant reduction was reported regarding pain intensity and frequency for wrist/hand, forearm, shoulder and neck after an intervention with the new mouse (p<0.009). All the participants reported pain at commencement. The control group using the traditional mouse reported only small changes in the pain level (p>0.24).
The TCO “Office Checker” a Tool for Ergonomic Work Place Evaluation
Authors: Andersson M. , Berns T. , Klusell L.
Published: January 2012

In the mid 80's, The Swedish confederation for white collar workers, the TCO, successfully launched it's first ergonomic testing tool - The Screen Checker. The Screen Checker made it possible for end user groups to formulate requirements regarding ergonomics for VDU's. The Screen Checker was developed further and the releases of TCO92, TCO95 and TCO99 have put new standards regarding aspects of office equipment, aspects based on ergonomics and ecology. The TCO “de facto” standards are now used in several countries world wide and the number of office equipment, that are included in the standard, has been increased for each new release. TCO started during 1999 to develop a tool that primarily is targeting the ergonomics in office furniture. A group of researchers has been established as reference group and end users are taking an active part in the project. The development process is based on the user centred design approach as defined in ISO 13407. When the tool is ready, the user will manage the entire process, including context analysis and ergonomic evaluation of their own office furniture. Initially, the tool is based on paper but it will be transferred into a web-based product in a second step. This paper will give an in depth description of the development process and the outcome of it.
Evaluation of Flexible Offices
Authors: Brunnberg H.
Published: January 2012

Two studies of flexible office were made in one private company and one unit in a local government. The aims of the evaluations were slightly different. In the private company sellers and technicians were interviewed about learning and co-operation in the new office. In the local government social workers were asked by a questionnaire and interviews about how their work were influenced by the new environment. The results show that a flexible office is not a general environment suiting all kinds of work; it depends on what is characteristic in the work. The work must be analysed very carefully in order to get knowledge of how the design of the physical environment may support the work activity.
Bringing Ergonomics to the Design of a Behavioural Care Unit
Authors: Barnett Jacqueline B.
Published: January 2012

The application of ergonomics is important when considering the built environment. In order to create an environment where form follows function, a detailed understanding of the tasks performed by the individuals who will live and work in the facility is required. Early involvement in the project is key to maximizing the benefit of ergonomics.

At Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, Canada, this early intervention was embraced during the design process of a behavioural care unit for aggressive patients. The ergonomist was involved in three phases of design; user needs analysis, block schematics and detailed design.

The user needs and characteristics were established using a combination of focus groups, interviews, direct observation, task analysis and critique of current working environments. The challenge was to present the information to the design team in a useful manner. The format chosen was a modification of Userfit (Poulson 1996) that outlined the various characteristics of the patient group and the design consequences with “what does this mean for me” statements.

During the block schematics phase an iterative design process was used to ensure that the ergonomic principles and the user needs were incorporated into the design. Ergonomic input was used in determining the room sizes and layout and to ensure work processes were considered. Simple mock-ups and anthropometric data assisted in illustrating the need for design changes. Examples that highlight the areas of greatest impact of ergonomic intervention include the patient bathrooms, showers and tub room. Significant changes were made to the design to improve the safety of the work and living space of the end users.

One of the greatest challenges was having an appreciation for the individual goals of the team members. Ensuring there was adequate space for equipment and staff often resulted in recommendations for increased space. This in turn would increase the cost of the project. The architect and, later in the project, the engineer had goals of bringing the project in on budget.

The final design was very much a team effort and truly die result of an iterative process. The sum of the individual contributions could not match the combined efforts. It was only through the ergonomic contributions in this early design phase that the needs of the staff, patients and families could be so well represented. The success of the iterative process provides the foundation for bringing ergonomics considerations into the early design stages of future projects.
Ergonomic Research Applied in the Design of Pre-School Furniture: The Mobipresc 3.6
Authors: Paschoarelli Luis Carlos , da Silva José Carlos Plácido
Published: January 2012

This research describes the application of a scientific and technological model of Ergonomics in the design of pre-school furniture. The constant presence of the desk in early education and its influence in the relationship between the user and his educational environment determined the necessity of this project. The pre-school desk was considered as a “work station”, where the joint aspects of education and child anthropometry substantiate the problem. The review of the Historical application of Ergonomics in the Design of children's products consolidated the importance of this report. The development of ergonomic research, characterised by investigations of the Brazilian child's Anthropometric Data and Biomechanical Features, resulted in dimensional parameters of the user and physical characteristics of the present furniture. These elements, together with a comprehension of activities and needs in the pre-school, were connected with aspects of bibliographical revision to result in a series of recomendations for design. Through the methods of Ergonomic Design, a new proposal for the pre-school desk was developed, denominated “Mobipresc 3.6”.
An Ergonomic Approach for the Cycleway Signaling System in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Alvão Claudia Mont' , Gusmão Fernanda , Arena Leonardo Macedo , de Magalhães Marcelo Lins , Fernandes Marcus Vinicius Levin
Published: January 2012

This paper presents an ergonomic approach about the cycleway signaling system of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The main problem detected was that the cycleway has a particular signaling system. So, some assystematic observations and task analysis studies were carried out. The signs were also compared to those established by Brazilian National Road Transportation Code (CTB), it was also verified that they have no similarities. As a result, we present recommendations, aiming improve the safety of cyclists, pedestrians and car drivers.
Relevance of Research Methods for the Design of Urban Open Public Spaces for Persons with Visual Impairments
Authors: Dischinger Marta , Ely Vera Helena Moro Bins
Published: January 2012

In spite of the advances in high technological research creating devices to support spatial orientation of visually impaired persons, they still confront a difficult situation in public urban spaces, which are seldom accessible to them. Design solutions aiming to improve their accessibility means to enhance their perception and understanding of space, to increase their possibilities of orientation and of taking independent decisions, and also to enable them participate in the city life. For a design of this kind it is necessary to understand their rights as citizens, and their particular needs and problems arising from the reduction, or absence of vision. To reach understanding of the problem, from another frame of reference that is not visual, it is essential to develop special research methods to analyse urban spaces, and to obtain first-hand information about spatial experiences of visually impaired persons.
Office Ergonomic Interventions: Strategies and Practices
Authors: Robertson Michelle M. , Robinson Marie , Chen Peter
Published: January 2012

Organizations today are seeking ways to use the work environment as a means of improving worker effectiveness, prevent work related musculoskeletal disorders and to enhance worker health and well-being. This paper presents three case studies where companies have designed, implemented and evaluated office ergonomics interventions. Incorporating a work systems design approach can provide an effective framework for successful office ergonomics interventions.
Transition to a Teambased Clientcentered Work Organisation in Administrative Service Work – A Focus on Effectiveness, Empowerment and Quality
Authors: Gard G.
Published: January 2012

A new work organisation has been introduced in administrative service work in the surveying company in Sweden during 1997 and 1998. The focus has been on empowerment, effectiveness and quality. The new work organisation implies 1) a transition to a teambased organisation implying a change in competence required, from specialist to generalist knowledge and 2) a change to a more client-centered organisation. The aim of this paper is to describe the personnels' perception of this transition process a short period after the start with a focus on empowerment, effectiveness and quality aspects. All surveyors in five regions in Sweden participated, in total 640 surveyors. A tailored questionnaire about the content of the transition process and the Teamwork Profile were used. Positive effects of the transition process were noted, as improved job control, more varied job content and improved cooperation with clients. The change in qualification from being a specialist to being a generalist in a team were highly related to group cohesion, supervisory support and job control as well as to overall effectiveness and flexibility of groupwork. All these aspects were also related to continous improvement practices in the surveying organisation. A focus on empowerment, effectiveness and quality is needed for continuous improvements of the surveying work organisation.
Reducing Occupational Accident and Injury Rates Through Safety and Macroergonomic Education of Future Managers
Authors: Stubbs Jonathan D. , Danielsson Mats , Ohlsson Kjell
Published: January 2012

Prevention of large-scale accidents (often called organizational disasters) is of growing importance in today's industrial organizations. Organizational disasters where large numbers of people and wide geographic areas are affected can mean serious economic and operation disruption to an organization. The role of managers in the prevention of organizational disasters is described as critical. However, typical manager attitude towards organizational disasters is that occurrence is unlikely. This attitude causes them to neglect prevention strategies and activities. Shaping the attitudes of future managers during their university level training (e.g., in MBA programs) through a class in ergonomics and safety is described as one means to shape manager attitudes. Psychological models of attitude formation and behavior show that an attitude is stronger when there is learning about a topic. Greater knowledge and interest may later prevent organization disasters when students become managers. There would likely be an additional benefit of greater awareness of existing ergonomics and safety programs that guard against small, single worker accidents.
Human Factors Issues in Video Teleconference Meeting Performance: A Case Study
Authors: Grenville Delia , Kleiner Brian M. , Denson Mila , Anderson Steve
Published: January 2012

The use of visual telephony is steadily becoming a business necessity. However, human factors issues in video teleconferencing (VTC) work systems can determine whether the benefits of VTC are fully realized. VTC meeting environments are augmented by visual displays, auditory systems, computer hardware and software. This generates complexity of managing these systems during the meeting. Furthermore, when managing these systems, other human factors issues arise such as systematic function allocation and training for the facilitator, technographer, and team members.
Introduction of Electronic Communication Technology into Schools
Authors: Wiebe Eric N.
Published: January 2012

Surveys and site-based interviews and observation were used to examine the introduction of electronic mail (e-mail) into three elementary schools. A contingency model of technology adoption by organizations was used to develop the instruments and interpret the results. Surveys were given to all of the school staff to capture information on key factors such as: expectations fore-mail, influence of peers and administrators, training, technical support, and other logistical factors. On-site observation was used to expand on the findings of the surveys. Strong differences were seen between the schools in their use of the new email system and in their responses to questions pertaining to various contingency factors. In addition, significant correlations were found between the contingency factors and self-reported e-mail usage. The results of this study not only point to the importance of attending to the contingency factors identified in this study, but emphasizing that many other factors play a role in the adoption of technology in organizations. These results have implications not only for future introductions of technology into schools, but also for the business community.
Integrated Management System (IMS) in Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Rentzsch Manfred , Ameli H. R.
Published: January 2012

The Integrated Management System is a method which, when properly employed, provides for an operating result that is economically effective in the broader sense, socially and environmentally compatible in terms of design and can be made outwardly visible on the basis of the products and can be permanently documented. Such success is brought about if the management system not superimposed onto the company in “formal” terms, but rather is established as an integrated system and, as such, imbued with life by company personnel.

From the “inside out” means that initiatives are generated from within the process and/or the activity and the performance goals of company management involved in quality assurance, environment protection and industrial safety are correspondingly oriented to this end. The scientific basis for this is provided by the theory on psychological regulation of work activities. Management is understood, on the one hand, as a institution and, on the other, in the functional sense as a control process at the function levels of leadership, planning, production, personnel, technology and resources. The performance goals mentioned can be effectively realized via interactive actions within the individual function levels. When it comes to the establishment of an IMS, inclusion of the employees involved in the process is an essential feature that is required for continuous improvement. The methodological procedure is described and the results obtained thereby are presented on the basis of examples from the metalworking industry.
Personality Traits as Predictors of Managerial Performance: A Study of Hotel Managers
Authors: Vredenburgh Alison G. , Hendrick Hal W. , Zackowitz Ilene B.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine which personality traits would predict the success of general managers in the service-oriented hotel industry. It evaluated the differences in personality traits between high and low performing managers in a geographical division of a major international hotel chain. Thirty-one male participants responded to the Guilford-Zimmerman Temperament Survey, a multi-dimensional personality inventory. T-tests indicated that the high and low performing managers differed the most on three personality variables: ascendance, emotional stability, and objectivity. Comptrollers scored consistently with the low-performing general managers; thus based on these results, they are likely to be poor candidates for promotion into top management. The three personality traits found to be the best predictors in this study are comparable to three of the “Big 5” personality factors that have previously been linked to job performance. The combined prediction of these three subscales accounted for 65% of the variance between the high and low performing groups. The original Guilford-Zimmerman contains 300 questions; thus a shortened version of this instrument tailored for the hotel industry that assesses only these three traits could be developed. This method would be a practical and useful means of predicting which candidates would best be suited for top management in the hospitality industry.
Organizational Environment as a Source of Stress – An Ergonomics View
Authors: Moiseichyk Ana Elizabeth , de Campos Gilberto Alexandre , Bento Heliete Rosa
Published: January 2012

There are many behavioral disturbances in modern man as well as psychosomatic disturbances, like stress, hi a highly competitive job market, where the means of work and information are rapidly transformed, one of the stress factors is the professional insecurity. There are also other factors linked to the organization of modern production such as: the space factor and the psycosocial and intersubjective relations of the working environment. The modern organization of work produces stressing conditions which may develop psychosomatic disturbances in the productive agents. Although the professionals feel capable of acting in some places of work, the fast transformations in modern world create some insecurity which provoke anxiety leading to stress. Due to this process, the cognitive ergonomics is formally integrated to the productive system; integrating to the business charts and assuming a technical feature to the extent that it has helped in the transformation of knowledge into production force, so as to measure the work for the man.
Integration of Ergonomics and Ecology - Activity Analysis Based Knowledge Transfer as Methodologic Approach Applied to Solve Severe Health and Environmental Hazards of the Metallurgic Industry in North West Russia
Authors: Ruth Walter
Published: January 2012

Working conditions of the metallurgic industry on Kola Peninsula, Russia are extremely hazardous. These industries also cause large scale environmental pollution. While the ergonomic problems still are mainly neglected, the destroyed forests and other effects on nature have been studied by ecologists, so far without considerable improvement. The situation from both aspects can be improved by integrating methods from ergonomics and ecology. Thereby knowledge transformation becomes a key issue. While Ecology has no methods for analysis of human activity and transfer of knowledge, Ergonomics can provide both. Ergonomically based ‘Ecological Optimisation’ in the industry can encourage environment and ecosystem to recover with limited costs. As a result it will also be possible to bring the severe working conditions into focus for improvement.
Restoring and Restraining Mechanisms – A Study of why Organisational Changes Fail
Authors: Abrahamsson Lena
Published: January 2012

This summary describes an analysis of restoring and restraining mechanisms in organisational changes and it focus on the question why organisational changes fail. The change projects studied are planned and rather comprehensive changes of work organisations aiming to organisational change in companies – strategies for flexibility, productivity, learning, continuous improvements, quality and growth. The paper discusses organisational structures, change processes and the effects of gender order. The case studies showed that it is difficult to handle a strongly gender segregated work organisations with gender neutral perspectives.
Life Spiral Analysis
Authors: Fialhao Mirian Loureiro , Kopittke Bruno Hartmut , Fialhao Francisco Antonio Pereira
Published: January 2012

This paper describes several approaches for Life Cycle Analysis, suggesting the integrated use of then for a better understanding of any process. Following a kind of autism, men are always understood as being outside of these processes. We are concerned with manufacturability, zero emission, and others, but not with the consequences of the work on men, main concern of Ergonomics. Infra-psychological (frustration, anxiety), and inter-psychological (conflict, stereotypes on how to behave in a group) aspects can not be forgotten.
Application of Bayesian Network Modeling in a Training Support Tool
Authors: Carolan Thomas , Scott-Nash Shelly , Laughery Ron
Published: January 2012

The instructor/trainer is a key decision making element in the training and assessment cycle designed to support performance in complex environments, There is an identified need for innovative tools and methods for instructors to use to evaluate performance in simulation based training environments. Bayesian network methods are being investigated as part of a project to provide integrated assessment, debrief and analysis support tools for instructors in an advanced tactics school.
Convergence or Divergence of Expert Mental Models: The Utility of Knowledge Structure Assessment in Training Research
Authors: Fiore Stephen M. , Fowlkes Jennifer , Martin-Milham Laura , Oser Randall L.
Published: January 2012

In this paper we discuss the impact of differing knowledge structure measurement techniques on assessing instructor mental models for behaviors associated with Situation Awareness. Our goals were, first, to investigate the degree to which an expert model for such behaviors actually exists, and second, to determine the degree to which experts, varying along a number of dimensions, assess these behaviors using differing knowledge structure measurement techniques. The results show substantial agreement in concept relatedness across differing measures, but less agreement across differing expert groups. Our discussion focuses on the differing measures and their ability to assess the knowledge structures associated with experts differing in their training roles and we review the implications of these findings for training researchers.
Theory and Data as Input to Traditional ISD Products
Authors: Sheehan Joseph D. , Oser Randall L.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a theoretically-based methodology that was used to enable the development of instructional objectives and media recommendations for training Military Flight Officers in Situation Awareness (SA). The research was conducted during a Training Situation Analysis already in progress. A set of behaviors theoretically linked to SA was empirically validated during 12 training flights at a Naval air station. Data was also collected concerning the criticality and difficulty to perform for each behavior, and the adequacy of the current training aircraft and simulators to provide the required training. Finally, two measures of structural knowledge were used to elicit mental model representations to identify the relationships among the behaviors. The process serves as an example of theory-to-practice in a real-world context.
Ford Motor Company Global Ergonomics Process
Authors: Joseph Bradley S.
Published: January 2012

The use of ergonomic principles in the design of automobile assembly and manufacturing operations has become an important part of a comprehensive health and safety process as well as an integral part of the engineering systems. Ford Motor Company has developed an ergonomics process to manage issues related to injury and illness (e.g., musculoskeletal diseases) and to ensure the appropriate use of human resources on the plant floor. The ergonomics program uses joint labor and management teams to identify and evaluate jobs and develop and implement solutions. This paper summarizes the Ford Motor Company efforts in implementing and maintaining the program. Key strategies are outlined that provide important links to internal organizational units that are critical to fully utilize the ergonomics process. In addition, the paper outlines differences between proactive and reactive efforts and shows the importance of using the information generated by the initiatives for process improvement.
Quality and Ergonomics Management
Authors: Axelsson Jan RC
Published: January 2012

Although there are many conceptual similarities in-between the areas of quality and ergonomics, and despite that several indicators point to the fact that poor ergonomics causes quality deficiencies, there are up to date few examples of integrated improvement efforts. As a consequence there is also lack a well-grounded common theory. To overcome some of the gaps this paper outlines a conceptual framework for an integrative approach to the development of quality and ergonomics in concert – the reasoning and results based on a extensive research program involving experience from twenty-five Swedish organizations during a period of eight years.
Quality Concerns of Web Design Process
Authors: Liu Dahai , Tarawneh Ibraheem S. , Bishu Ram
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses the issues pertaining to web quality. The web quality is defined in terms of the design process of the web sites as well as the presented information. Within each term a set of criteria was developed that affect the web quality. These sets of criteria are applicable for both web page design guidelines and web page evaluation and improvements. A simple quantitative evaluation model was given using these criteria, the model is based on the AHP methodology.
“Dramaturgy of Work Life” - Transfer of Knowledge as Key Issue in Ergonomic Interventions, Theoretical Framework and Applications
Authors: Ruth Walter
Published: January 2012

For successful ergonomic intervention the ergonomist should become a catalyst of change leaving the expert role. Human Interactive Methods (HIM) are characterized by involving the “problem owners” to become committed to actively dealing with the problems. HIM is part of a wider theoretical framework “The Dramaturgy of Work Life” (DWL) in which the Transfer of Knowledge becomes a key issue. The design process can be described as a play where different actors create different parts. The rules of the play have to be adapted to the language of the user giving her/him a fair chance to act her/his part. Otherwise it is inadequate to speak of Participative Ergonomics. Examples from industry, service, health care, education and culture enterprises illustrate the application of DWL and HIM.
The Use of Ergonomic Work Analysis to Understand the Transfer of Knowledge and Skills made by VDT Users from Training to Preventive Action
Authors: Trudel Louis , Montreuil Sylvie
Published: January 2012

A qualitative evaluation of 11 VDT users, who participated in a training program (2 × 3 hours) for the prevention of musculoskeletal problems, investigated the extent of the application of the taught principles in everyday work. An ergonomist has collected data over a 2 to 3 day period for each trainee (six months after the training sessions), through an ergonomic work analysis in situ and semi-structured interviews. Cases analysis and a cross analysis of the cases permitted to a better understanding of the transfer of knowledge and skills process, from the training program to preventive action. These elements lead to a better identification of problems in applying taught principles by the trainee and the means to readjust the training program.
Training Programs: Towards Transformation of Work Situation
Authors: Wendelen Elisabeth
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses an experience of training in ergonomic work analysis (EWA).

Two ergonomists of the National Institute for Research on Working Conditions (INRCT, in French) trained a group of employees in the Brussels plant of a multinational company.

This training took place after having checked about fifty VDU (video display unit) workplaces.

None of these 50 VDU users was aware of the possibilities of adjusting his or her specific workplace. The manager and the union decided to train one or two persons in each department, to enable them to answer minor questions of their unit's employees relating to adjusting their own workplace. It was agreed that more difficult problems raised by the employees would be transferred to external experts.

The paper seeks to analyse the impact of this experience on the VDU workers: are they able to change their working conditions? What exactly did change?

To conclude, some conditions necessary for the success of such training programmes are highlighted.
Psychophysiology: The Missing Link in Macroergonomic Models of Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Schleifer Lawrence M. , Ley Ronald , Spalding Thomas W.
Published: January 2012

This presentation proposes that psychophysiology is a bridge between macroergonomic factors and work-related musculoskeletal disorders. It is argued that the causal role of macroergonomic factors in musculoskeletal disorders is best understood through the application of psychophysiological models, methods, and measures. A psychophysiological approach provides for a more definitive and finer grain analysis of the relationship between macroergonomic factors and musculoskeletal disorders than is possible with correlational epidemiological studies. It is concluded that psychophysiology provides a biological plausible explanation for how work stress factors contribute to musculokskeletal disorders.
Social Psychophysiology of Teamwork during Continuous Tracking
Authors: Henning Robert A. , Boucsein Wolfram , Gil Monica
Published: January 2012

Team proficiency may depend on the extent of social-physiological compliance among participants. This laboratory study tested if compliance in electrodermal activity, heart rate or breathing in two-person teams (N=16) was predictive of team performance or coordination in a continuous tracking task that simulated teleoperation. Social-physiological compliance for each physiological measure was scored separately using weighted coherence and cross correlation of the physiological changes occurring in both participants (e.g., the cross correlation of the breathing pattern of the first team member with the breathing pattern of the second team member). Direct visual feedback between participants was systematically manipulated. Multiple regression analyses revealed that many coherence measures and one correlation measure were predictive of team performance. While social-visual contact had no impact, physiological compliance was predictive of improved performance, with coherence robust over all three physiological measures. These results provide correlational evidence that social-physiological compliance among team members may benefit team performance. Possible macroergonomic applications are discussed including assessment of team situation awareness, adaptive automation based on team biocybernetics, and objective evaluation of interface designs for computer-supported cooperative work.
Theories and Models of Electronic Commerce
Authors: Helander Martin G.
Published: January 2012

A systems model is used to illustrate the information flow between three subsystems in e-commerce: Store Environment, Customer, and Web Technology. In the process of purchase, a customer makes several decisions: to enter the store, to navigate, to purchase, and to pay. This artificial environment must be designed so that it can support customer decision-making. At the same time it must be pleasing and fun, and create a task with natural flow. The paper summarizes existing research and theories, and provides a few suggestions for future research.
A One Year Polar Scientific Expedition Analog to a Mars Mission
Authors: Leon G. R. , Ones D. S. , Shelton J.
Published: January 2012

The Otto Sverdrup Centennial Expedition group consisted of an international team of 6 adults (3 married couples) and one child which spent a year traveling to and living in the Canadian Arctic. The group composition provided a unique analog to some of the speculations about the most appropriate group to select for long-duration Mars planetary habitation. This study examined individual factors, group interactions, and task performance over the course of the expedition. Subjects completed personality questionnaires, partner relationship, and work attitude and satisfaction measures prior to departure, and weekly rating forms during the Arctic period assessing mood, stress and coping, relationships, sleep patterns, energy and appetite, and work performance. Personal semi-structured interviews were also conducted approximately 9 months into the isolation period. In general, the group functioned well and expressed satisfaction with their performance. The primary stressors were feelings of confinement, lack of privacy, and personal hygiene issues. Frequently mentioned methods of coping were enjoyment of the Arctic environment, seeking support and sharing concerns with one's spouse, and daydreaming.