Ergonomics 1

1. Compare the 2 different workplaces, state your observations.

In the first workplace, the user feels uncomfortable sitting on the chair for long hours. The chair does not give the user the freedom to move the arms when he is trying to do other things and does not allow the back to move downwards to let the person lie back. Also, the chair cannot be adjusted up or down, making the person feel more uncomfortable with the wrong height. In the second workplace, the person feels comfortable. The arms of the chair can be moved upwards when the person wants it to, and the back can be moved downwards, letting the person lie back. There are different parts of the back of the chair that is able to move. Also, the chair’s height can be adjusted.

In the first workplace, the user’s eyes feels strained from staring at the computer screen for a long period of time. The screen is not able to move to make the height suitable for the user. In the second workplace, the user feels comfortable. The screen has an arm behind it, such that it allows the screen to move up, down, left and right.

In the first workplace, the lights are too glaring for the user to see properly, the lights are too hot so the user cannot adjust properly and there is a reflection on the screen making it harder to read the words on the screen. In the second workplace, the light is movable and can be pointed to a specific place. The light is also not very glaring so the user can see easily.

In the first workplace, the user experience troubles using the computer for too long and feeling strained. He cannot find a suitable place to put the computer. In the second workplace, there is a laptop holder to rise the laptop to a suitable height for the user.

In the first workplace, he has a lot of things on his work desk, making it messy. The CPU and keyboard is on the table. The user also spilled his drink because of lack of space. In the second workplace, there is more space on his work desk, and he feels more comfortable. The CPU is placed under the table, which the keyboard can be pushed out and not placed on the table.

2. Which workplace is preferred? State with reasons why one workplace is preferred over the other.

The second workplace is preferred. The chair is more comfortable, with its back allowed to move backwards to let the user lie back, can be adjusted up or down and the arms of the chair can be moved up or down to suit what the user is doing. The monitor can be adjusted to a suitable height for the user to make him feel comfortable. The lights are not very glaring, making it easy to see properly. There is more space so the user can feel comfortable.

3. What are the considerations that should be taken into account when designing a workplace that is suitable for the user?

When designing a workplace, we must consider the problems faced with the items in a workplace, and what discomforts they face. Also, we should consider the current products already designed to address these problems.

4. Why do you think that Ergonomics is important when designing?

Ergonomics is the communication between the product and the user. When designing, we must consider if we ourselves want to buy the product.