ABSTRACT
Human factors/ergonomics (HF/E) delineates itself from related professions via a design-driven systems approach with the dual outcomes of optimizing human wellbeing and system performance. However, use of the terminology “human factors” and “ergonomics” varies, and the variations can create confusion. While HF/E practice is typically unregulated, wide variations in the breadth and depth of practice have resulted in a number of certication bodies that use the competencies set by the International Ergonomics Association (IEA) to certify practitioners to provide a measure of condence in the HF/E services they receive. However, it can be challenging for students to nd academic programs that lend themselves to attaining the
Practitioner Summary .............................................................................................. 19 Introduction ..............................................................................................................20 Human Factors and Ergonomics: Is There a Difference? Does It Matter? ..............20 Professional Competency ......................................................................................... 21 Education to Practice ...............................................................................................22 Research to Practice .................................................................................................23 The HF/E Profession in Developing Countries ........................................................24
