Physical characterisation is in the form of specific anthropometric dimensions related to the product and stature (as a reference measure; grip strength; and, some range of motion (ROM) measurements. A screening questionnaire can also lead into gaining more information about the participant’s past experience of the product or service and define their associated medical condition.
The measurements taken may be cross-referenced with the quality of performance, as measured/observed through Task analysis (Wilson and Corlett 1995).
The cross-referencing of physical characteristics and performance may lead to predictive modelling of a user, task, environment (UTE).
Useful links
Open Ergonomics Ltd. 2015, (online). PeopleSize 2008, Available at: (http://www.openerg.com/psz/index.html). Accessed: [23/09/2015].
Pheasant, S., Haslegrave, C.M., 2006. Bodyspace, anthropometry, ergonomics and the design or work (3rd ed), Taylor & Francis, London.
Wilson, J. R., and E. N. Corlett. 1995. Evaluation of human work: A practical ergonomics methodology. 2nd ed. London: Taylor & Francis.
Tichauer, E.R., 1978. The biomechanical basis of ergonomics, anatomy applied to the design of work situations, John Wiley & Sons, New York.