The development of ergonomic standards

ABSTRACT

This paper is an attempt to introduce a conception for the development of human factors standards. Most propositions and assertions presented here rely upon experiences made in German standardization groups.The paper provides some assertions concerning the peculiarities of ergonomic standards. Furthermore, some prerequisites are discussed to be envisaged when a standardization committee is going to engender normative propositions. The German standard on ergonomic dialogue design (DIN 66 234, Part 8) is taken as an example for the development of ergonomic standards. The historical background and some problems with the application of the standard are explained thereby contributing to an ongoing discussion about this standard.The paper is intended to reflect a tradition of thought in German standardization committees as well as to contribute to the current debate in the human factors community as well as in the new ISO group (ISO TC 159 / SC4 / WG5: Software Ergonomics an Man-Machine Dialogue).

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.3 COMPUTER GRAPHICS
      I.3.6 Methodology and Techniques
          Subjects: Ergonomics

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES

General Terms:
Human Factors, Performance, Standardization