We rarely think about the way we interact with everyday objects, but once it poses an inconvenience to us, it’s the only thing that we will notice. We take for granted the fact that most of our favourite items, and everyday things such as desks and chairs, are painstakingly designed for the best user experience. Many modern manmade objects have gone through many iterations and countless studies and trials to make them more comfortable for use. And not only are these manmade equipment, tools, furniture, and other things designed to be more comfortable, they are also designed to increase your productivity, be more efficient, and improve the design in other aspects.
Understanding ergonomics
Did you know that there is a name for the study of making the everyday things we use to be more suitable for their usage? The term for this study is called ergonomics. Ergonomics, in simple terms, is a scientific discipline that is concerned with how to arrange spaces, products, furniture, systems, and other things to ensure that they are optimised for human use.
When you think of the term, you may associate it with the ergonomic tables and other types of furniture that you see in an office. But what exactly does it mean, really? It’s been used often that it might have lost all meaning for you.
Ergonomics takes a closer look at the relationship between humans, systems, places, and things to be able to achieve this feat. It’s a relatively new branch of science, but it’s catching on fast especially in business environments. The study of ergonomics only really began to catch on by the turn of the 21st century, but it builds upon the principles and findings of other, older and more established branches of science such as engineering and even psychology. Rather, it might be a result of a blend between various disciplines.
How does ergonomics work?
What makes items like Herman Miller office chairs so comfortable and how does it help you with other tasks? As you may have noticed, while ergonomics can definitely apply to many fields, it is most commonly used in the office and other types of workplace. That’s because efficiency and productivity matter a lot in a competitive business environment. It’s no secret that there is a race between businesses on how to optimise the working environment so that employees can make the most out of their time.
You might wonder how plain office chairs can play a big part in this, but you’d be surprised. A simple upgrade in comfort can keep an employee happy and focused for hours on end, and if you translate this idea to a more ergonomic interior for the office, you’ll find that you keep your employees more motivated for much longer, leading to an increase in productivity, lower turnover rates, faster work times, and much more.
So when you’re planning out the interior of your workplace, don’t just mindlessly get any type of furniture just because it looks good. Rather, try going for more ergonomic chairs and other items that have other benefits aside from aesthetic and plain function.
Here are just a few other benefits of ergonomic design that definitely plays a part in why they’re important:
- Fewer health risks. More ergonomic designs are created to be less burdensome to its users. With a great ergonomic design, people experience less pain while using them and lessen the chances of developing neck and back issues related to using these types of furniture. They will also be able to experience less discomfort while in use, allowing them to work for much longer.
- Saving money and expenses. While you may think that you’re saving money by cutting corners and getting cheap furniture, in the long run you’re not saving yourself a few bucks by not considering your purchases. You save a lot of money by cutting down on risk of injuries and employee compensation claims, as well as having more productive workers overall. The indirect ways that you can profit from ergonomic designs are endless.
What are the different kinds of items that can be ergonomic?
You may be thinking to yourself, after planning out the layout and design of your new office, what items you can get that is ergonomic. You’ll be surprised to note that not only are your usual suspects designed to be ergonomic, but a whole host of other items as well. Here are some of the things in your office that you can definitely find ergonomic counterparts to.
Office chairs
Is this not obvious? When we think of an ergonomic design, we usually think of comfy office chairs that we sit hours on end on. It’s important that you find a good office chair that you can sit on and be relaxed in because most office jobs require you to be at your desk for long periods of time. Chairs are the one thing that supports your weight.
Desks and tables
Other things that you’ll likely need are ergonomic desks and tables. When we talk about ergonomic tables, the most important thing about them is that they allow you to work and do jobs in whichever position allows for great comfort. Oftentimes, this means that the desk is designed to shorten the amount of time that you spend hunched over in awkward positions. There are many types of desks that are adjustable in height, meaning, they allow you to work sitting or standing as you so please.
Keyboards and mice
Yes, keyboards and mice can also be made ergonomic! An ergonomic keyboard or mics is perfectly designed to fit your hand and leaves no room for awkward angles. Working at a computer all day can cramp up your fingers and lead to numerous health problems like carpal tunnel and the like. Even the equipment that you use at your desk can go a long way in preventing cramps and discomfort. Look into some accessories that can help lessen the pain of performing tasks at the computer for long periods of time. There are many types of unique keyboards that you can look into, such as handheld or split type keyboards, as well as shaped mice.
Xtra Design is a distributor of Herman Miller Aeron and other brands of quality chairs and furniture in Singapore. Browse our extensive catalogue on our website.