Abstract

The relationship between ergonomics and the disciplines it seeks to inform has been described as problematic. Interventions in design decisions may be seen as inappropriate, superficial or occurring too late in the design lifecycle. However, little research has been presented which shows how ergonomics is used throughout applied research projects which in themselves lead to system or product designs. This paper explores the way ergonomics and user centred design informs such projects. It is argued that by working with other disciplines, ergonomics can be enriched and broadened and that the systematic and holistic approach taken by ergonomists can be used to shape the research process. The hexagon-spindle model (Benedyk and Woodcock, 2009) is used to exemplify how a structured approach can be brought to the consideration of user issues and the design of evaluation studies.