ABSTRACT
Tool selection in human factors and ergonomics (HF/E) is very important, but the right knowledge of the person using the outputs from the tool is critical for success. Understanding the client’s need requires investigation before selecting the tool(s) to be used-clients often think they know what will work, but part of the practitioner’s job is to critically assess this and assist in formulating the right approach. HF/E tools are generally good for describing issues, but weaker where they attempt to link to a hard threshold for action. There will be times when one tool is not sufcient to nd the answers to the questions posed. Learning to use tools in combination and to apply experience and knowledge is at least as important as learning to use the tools individually.
