Ergonomics: clutching at straws, or real prospects for better work?

Abstract

Ergonomists have paid little attention to marketing and selling their profession, though many of them are firm believers in the values and benefits of their work. Nevertheless, all over the world the usefulness of ergonomics has been brought up for discussion; a process which ergonomists could not prevent. Many a time the discussions resulted in the reduction of staff, or even in liquidation of the ergonomics department. On the basis of experience in selling and buying ergonomic advice, several recommendations for a client oriented strategy are given in this paper.

Keywords:

• Ergonomics
• Marketing
• Strategy
• Consultancy.