3. Analysis methods

3.1 Business analysis

The central method in ergonomics is activity analysis. It is based on observing the behavior of users or operators in real-life situations, and interviewing them to elucidate the motives behind their actions. Activity analysis aims to understand the determinants of activity:

• objectives pursued by the user or operator ;

• characteristics of raw materials and tools used ;

• user- or operator-specific characteristics (e.g. size, lateralization);

• other characteristics of the situation (workshop, office, domestic, public place) ;

• incidents, etc.

The aim of...