Storyboarding to improve collaboration between ergonomics, design and engineering

Abstract

The goal of this article is propose solutions for ergonomists in order to synthesize user experience, use analysis and product/system specifications more efficiently. This synthesis would enable the design team to take better account of ergonomic considerations by designers (product designers and engineers) in the design process. After a short presentation of the roles of the contributors in different project stages, we present three case studies that illustrate this necessity and propose storyboarding as a powerful and efficient collaboration tool for the ergonomist. The storyboard could be a solution if ergonomists had drawing skills. But logically, formalization of object being the very essence of designers' job, a drawing assisting tool could be interesting to ergonomics practice. Finally we present the results of tests that we have achieved with two support tools for storyboarding.