Human factors engineering, also known as ergonomics, is a career field that studies how humans interact with their environment and machine or computer interfaces, such as when flying an airplane or driving a car. Human factors engineers work in a variety of settings, including consulting firms, the government or military, medical, and aviation. Human factors engineers work in a variety of industries, including transportation, manufacturing, and telecommunications. Human factors engineers can be found in any field that develops tools or interface systems between humans and technology in order to improve system safety and usability. Human factors engineers work in both academia and research.
Human factors engineering’s goal in industry is to design technological systems that are simple for people to use safely and that reduce the chance of errors while increasing the system’s efficacy. In order to work in industry, human factors engineers must be familiar with their employer’s product line as well as how people are likely to use the product. The designer develops a system that functions as a natural extension of the user while also meeting the user’s requirements.
Human factors engineers are used in the aviation industry to reduce pilot error and the risks that come with flying a plane. To fly a plane and keep passengers safe, pilots rely heavily on instrument panels. Their decision-making abilities are reliant on the pilot’s ability to communicate effectively with the instrument panel interface.
Human factors engineers are employed by the computer industry to design workstations that are tailored to the needs of the worker. Computers have become much easier to use as a result of advances in human factors engineering, with computer screens that resemble more familiar physical desktops. Cell phones, personal digital assistants, and smartphones, for example, are designed to be easier to use.
Human factors engineers can work in research, design, or a combination of the two. The process of research entails observing user situations and gathering information about the problem. Design is the process of turning gathered data into practical solutions. A skilled engineer should be able to anticipate potential problems and conflicts, as well as have the flexibility and creativity to brainstorm solutions.
A master’s or doctoral degree is typically required for a career in human factors engineering. A career in human factors engineering necessitates knowledge of psychology and interface design in addition to engineering skills. Psychology, physiology, engineering, and industrial design all come together in human factors engineering. Human factors engineers come from a variety of backgrounds, including industrial/organizational engineering, systems engineering, and research psychology.