ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces and defines the concept of human factors in design with particular attention given to the social, psychological, and cultural dimensions of the built environment. Why human factors are a necessary consideration when designing outdoor environments is addressed as well as how the inclusion of person-centric criteria can create more sustainable and supportive environments. Next, the chapter situates human factor considerations into the various phases of the design process – inventory, analysis, design development, and design implementation – as well as some of the societal contexts that currently influence design and planning decisions. This discussion includes a review of how demographic shifts, family structures, technology advances, and climate change have altered the practice and priorities of these professions. In closing, the reader is challenged to understand their own landscape values and how those values inform their design decisions. The intention is to make these influences known in an effort to prepare designers to be more sympathetic to and understanding of the desires of others.
