Framework of awareness: For the analysis of ergonomics in design

Abstract

The present paper introduces the Framework of Awarenessto the analysis of ergonomics in design. The framework is part of a doctoral research that took the Lean Thinking perspective by adopting the concept of MUDA and its set of principles as dimensions to study designers’ behaviour in industry.Results were integrated into a Framework of Awareness to critical situations and crucial actions in design, with application in the research field of design and product development for managerial support, and of particular interest for the analysis of ergonomics in design. The framework is the result from detailed non-participatory researchacross five design disciplines. The framework proposes a mindful approach to the analysis ofcritical situations through a structured procedure but without requiring specific technical knowledge. The framework aims to support designers and developers totheawareness of critical situations and opportunities, through a set of principles-based, iterative and momentarily application. The ramework is proposedto the design practice to nurture a culture of awareness andprovide guidelines to support designers’ framing their interventions and eventually change previously identified less successful behaviour.Product Innovation ManagementIndustrial Design Engineerin