Human Factors Engineering

Abstract

Human factors engineering (also known as ergonomics) is a body of knowledge and a collection of analytical and empirical methods used to guide the development of systems to ensure suitability for human use. Human factors engineering is a component of user-centered design, and encompasses the disciplines of human–computer interaction and usability engineering. The focus of human factors engineering is on understanding the capabilities and limitations of human abilities, and applying that understanding to the design of human–machine systems. This entry introduces the general topics of human factors engineering and usability testing.