End User Computing Ergonomics - End User Computing Challenges and Technologies: Emerging Tools and Applications - page 280

helpful. Also, keeping the screen clean for better
viewing will reduce eye strain (Healthy Comput-
ing, 2002).

by others at home. One source suggests a proper
adjustable chair that fits the user. In fact it may
be the most important piece in the ergonomic
puzzle. Choosing furniture and equipment that
maintains good posture is crucial (Karr, 2003).
Telecommuters often overlook ergonomic issues,
especially in “secondary” workspaces.

workstation sharing

Some organizations provide technology to be
shared among end users. The workspace is setup
for multiple workers to use at various times.
This is a practical approach to the efficient use
of computing resources. Even though repeti-
tive stress injuries are not usually an issue with
shared workstations, posture may be an area of
concern. Adjustability may need to be a priority
in the case of shared workstations (Briggs, 2003;
Hanson, 2004).
Hot-desking is a term used when end users
do not have a dedicated workstation. In hot-desk-
ing situations, it is especially important for the
workstation (including the chair and monitor) to
be adjustable to suit the end users individually.
The users must also be taught how to adjust the
equipment and why it needs to be done (Hanson,
2004). The “importance” of adjusting the worksta-
tion components is essential. But just providing
the “adjustability” may not be enough to get the
ergonomic job done. Training and communica-
tion are key.

Future technology and ergonomics

Currently, the trend in office technology seems to
center around smaller, transportable computing
devices mentioned earlier. What could be next?
Is it possible that end users may be performing
computing tasks via “wearable computers?”
What exactly is a wearable computer? Venture
Development Corp. (VDC) describes it as includ-
ing a microprocessor and software (either user
defined or specific task oriented). It is worn by an
end user (creating a hands free environment) and
is accessible and connected to a communication
network. It may include Geographic Positioning
Systems (GPS) or radio frequency (RF) as well
as other sensors that can help to perform user
tasks. Some companies now use voice based
systems with headsets in warehouse situations.
It is not clear how businesses will embrace this
type of wearable technology; however, a market
growth rate of over 50%, compounded annually,
is expected (Shea & Gordon, 2003).
Wearable computers may seem science fiction
based. However, with technologies like voice
recognition and microphone headsets already
available, it is really not difficult to imagine that
wearable computers could be common equipment
for computer end users. Only time will tell what
kind of ergonomic issues will be emerging because
of this type of computer equipment. Managers and
end users should be attentive for proactive advice
from ergonomic specialists as well as experiences
from individual end users as they arise.

Telecommuting and Home Offices

Telecommuting is a growing business phenom-
enon. A survey conducted by the International
Telework Association and Council showed a
total of 23.5 million telecommuters (reported in
September 2003). The number of telecommuters
doubled from 1997 to 2003 (Karr, 2003). Given
this data, it is reasonable to assume that the
number of telecommuters today is dramatically
greater. Questions arise as to how ergonomic
issues are being addressed in this type of work
environment.
The environment may be complicated by the
fact that the desk area may be one that is shared