The latest fad in office culture is creating an ergonomic space where your employees can learn, work and thrive. Read below for our ultimate cheat sheet to understanding the world of ergonomics and easy ways you can incorporate it into your office today.
What Does Ergonomic Even Mean?
Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word ergonomic as, “an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.” That definition doesn’t help much, so let’s break it down. Things that are ergonomic are things that have been designed to basically make your life easier. Making your life easier can mean anything from helping you work more efficiently, relieving pain, keeping you safe, and helping you stay healthy.
There are three different types of ergonomic things, all of which can be used in an office space to make you and your employees’ lives easier, safer, healthier, and happier.
Physical Ergonomics
This type of ergonomics generally applies to objects like office furniture. When an object is designed with physical ergonomics in mind, it is done with research of the human anatomy and how it relates to physical activity. Things such as an ergonomic office chair are designed to support your back, bring you the most comfort possible, and keep your anatomy safe and healthy.
Cognitive Ergonomics
Usually, when an object is designed with cognitive ergonomics in mind, it’s designed to be easy to use. Think of an iPhone or a software that is easy to learn. Cognitive ergonomics can be used in an office space to lessen the stress on employees and again, make their lives easier. Things like easy-to-use machinery such as printers and even easy-to-understand ways of doing things like scheduling and filing can lead to a more efficient workplace.
Organizational Ergonomics
Organizational ergonomics is the way structures in an office are designed. Think of the processes you have for submitting work, editing files and getting things done. Are they convoluted and involve a lot of unnecessary steps? If so, you might want to consider streamlining and simplifying the way your office does things to incorporate organizational ergonomics into your workplace.
Incorporating an Ergonomic Lifestyle into Your Office
Now that we’ve covered what ergonomic means and the three ways something can be ergonomic, it’s time to incorporate ergonomics into your office! This doesn’t have to be as hard as it seems. Creating an ergonomic office can be as easy as finding the perfect ergonomic office furniture that supports your employees and keeps them comfortable all day long. You can also try introducing easier and more streamlined ergonomic processes into your office culture. If you’re still using paper to schedule meetings, record messages and send memos, consider going paperless and using a productivity software.
There are countless ways that you can incorporate the idea of ergonomics into your office, all it takes is a little creativity and willpower!
If you liked this blog, you’re going to love our other post about How to Make Your Office an Experienced Based Workplace. Check it out!