Contributor Philip Jacobs finds a series of

Contributor Gene Kay, MS CEA brings together a collection of tips and research findings to help students and knowledge workers perform at their best. See what simple steps you can take to improve learning, memory, cognitive function and work performance.

Most of us have heard of the dangers caused by distracted driving and cell phones. this article identifies the potential for distracted driving caused by the on-board controls and touch screen technology being added to some newer cars.

Have you ever been asked "what's the right height for my desk?" To the computer user, this is a simple question demanding a simple answer. To the ergonomist, it's a loaded question, one that requires a patient explanation of the factors that must be considered when setting up a workstation -- including desk height. To the furniture, facilities management and purchasing industries, it's "29 inches," which ergonomists know can't possibly be right for all people ...

Researchers Blackstone, Karr, Campo and Johnson investigated the physical exposure differences between children and adults when using standard sized input devices and smaller input devices. The results suggest something that ergonomists are well aware of -- something we hope designers and manufacturers will one day embrace -- One size does not fit all. The study investigates the effect of computer input device size on performance, posture and force.

Researchers Boda, Bhoyar and Garg conducted a study with the intention to validate the ability of the NIOSH Revised Lifting Equation and the University of Michigan 3D Static Strength Prediction Model (3DSSPP) to predict the future occurrence of work-related low back pain (WLBP). In this research review reprinted from The Ergonomics Report, reviewer Peter Budnick describes the results as mixed, bringing into question both the methods used to validate complex human-system models, and the ability of ergonomists to evaluate lifting/lowering tasks and predict associated risk of WLBP with certainty.

"Lean" management philosophy is an evolving systematic approach to building and maintaining a viable organization with sustainable processes. Many organizations are pursuing Lean to remain competitive, but unfortunately, many misunderstand the necessary ingredients for a true Lean Journey, including the most important principle, Respect for People. In this reprint from The Ergonomics Report, Peter Budnick explains why ergonomists are uniquely qualified to lead and participate in successful Lean Journeys, noting that ergonomics IS Respect for People, and our contributions are critical to optimizing organizational performance.

There's been a lot of talk lately about ergonomic product certification, and Peter Budnick takes readers on a tour of the topic, drawing from work he's done on the question over the last 10-15 years. In this article, Part 2 of his series, he expands the model of what it means to be ergonomic, and how products and processes might be assessed in a certification process. He draws on definitions put forth by the International Ergonomics Association, and reviews their EQUID Design Process Requirements, identifying it as a solid starting point for a robust, inclusive and credible certification system.