End-Semester Project Ideas
Physical Ergonomics Projects
Workplace Ergonomics Audit and Redesign
Select a real workspace (library study area, campus cafeteria, computer lab, or home workspace) and conduct a comprehensive ergonomic assessment. Measure existing furniture dimensions, observe user behaviors, identify ergonomic hazards, collect anthropometric data from 5-10 users, and propose evidence-based redesigns with mockups or prototypes. Deliverables include measurement data, analysis of 5th-95th percentile accommodation, before/after comparisons, and cost-benefit analysis of proposed improvements.
Anthropometric Product Design
Design a product for a specific user population (children's furniture, elderly-accessible kitchen tools, adjustable workstation components) using proper anthropometric principles. Research relevant body dimensions, create accommodation strategies for size variability, develop scaled prototypes or detailed CAD models, and test with representative users. The project should demonstrate understanding of designing for extremes, averages, or adjustable ranges with proper justification.
Ergonomics in Public Spaces Students identify and analyze ergonomic problems in public infrastructure (ATM placement, public seating, signage systems, transit interfaces) and create comprehensive redesign proposals. They document current issues through photography and user observation, gather user feedback from diverse populations, apply anthropometric and biomechanical principles, and present solutions that improve accessibility and comfort for the widest user range.
Cognitive Ergonomics Projects
Interface Cognitive Load Analysis Select a complex digital interface (banking app, learning management system, government portal, e-commerce checkout) and conduct a cognitive load assessment. Identify sources of extraneous cognitive load, test the interface with 8-10 users using think-aloud protocols, measure task completion time and error rates, and redesign key workflows to reduce cognitive burden. The analysis should reference specific cognitive ergonomics principles like chunking, progressive disclosure, and Fitts's Law.
Signage and Wayfinding System Design Design a comprehensive wayfinding system for a complex environment (hospital, campus building, transit hub, shopping complex) applying principles of perception, attention, and cognitive load. Map user journeys, identify decision points, apply Gestalt principles and visual hierarchy, create prototypes of signage systems, and validate designs through user testing with attention to diverse user needs (non-native speakers, elderly, children).
Error-Proofing Design Project Analyze error-prone systems or interfaces (medication dispensing, complex form completion, multi-step technical procedures) and redesign them to prevent human error. Categorize error types (slips, mistakes, violations), identify cognitive factors contributing to errors, apply error-prevention strategies (constraints, affordances, feedback), and create redesigned solutions with before/after error analysis.
Accessibility
Inclusive Design
Redesign an everyday product or space to be accessible for people with specific disabilities (visual impairment, limited mobility, cognitive impairments). Research user needs through interviews or literature review, apply both physical and cognitive accessibility principles, create functional prototypes or detailed specifications, and demonstrate improvements through user testing or expert evaluation.
Project Guidelines and Assessment Criteria
For all projects, students should:
- Apply specific ergonomic principles covered in the course
- Include both quantitative data (measurements, task times, error rates) and qualitative insights (user observations, interviews). Create documentation
- Reference academic literature and ergonomics standards
- Create tangible deliverables (prototypes, detailed specifications, user testing reports)
- Present findings professionally with clear documentation of methodology
- Reflect on limitations and propose future improvements
Recommended deliverables structure:
- Project proposal (week 1): Problem statement, methodology, timeline
- Progress presentation (week 2-4): Work on prototypes, user tests
- Final submission (week 5): Complete documentation, prototypes/mockups, user testing results, and presentation