Integration of Human Factors into Engineering Design

Abstract

Usability has been shown to increase the success of design projects, but is routinely left out of the design process. Through an investigation into the history and value of usability, experiential design project, analyzing the target users of commercially available products, and a case study into a successful project by novice designers, it was found that a tool would be helpful for guiding students to include human factors. This tool is in the form of an app, and prompts the students to incorporate usability from their initial research and project requirement development to the implementation and testing of their design. This tool will allow both educators and students to practice human-centred design to increase the usability and desirability of their design projects.