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Abstract

This panel brings together global experts to explore the evolving practice of community ergonomics—an approach that applies Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) to co-design systems with and for marginalized communities. Building on the lessons articulated in Barton et al. (2025), panelists will present diverse case studies that highlight both the promise and complexity of community-engaged HFE work. Panelists will reflect on the epistemological shifts, methodological adaptations, and relational commitments required to move toward genuine collaboration and social impact. Attendees will leave with tangible strategies for engaging communities as co-designers, as well as deeper insight into how our assumptions as HFE professionals shape the outcomes of our work. This session is a call to action for expanding the scope, values, and practice of ergonomics for a more equitable world.

Keywords

macroergonomics community ergonomics co-design participatory design

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References

Barton

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Harris

M. T.

Rogers

C. C.

Lange-Morales

Thatcher

Newman

L. C.

Wooldridge

A. R.

Rogers

W. A.

Montague

Werner

N. E.

Valdez

R. S.

(2025). Leveraging ergonomics and human factors (E/HF) for community impact: What have we learned about how to make a difference. Ergonomics. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/00140139.2025.2450726

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Todd

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Thatcher

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(2002). Community ergonomics. Macroergonomics: Theory, methods, and applications (pp. 289–309). Lawrence Erlbaum.

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(1994). Community ergonomics: An emerging theory and engineering practice. Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, 38, 729–733.

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(1994). Community ergonomics: A theoretical model for rebuilding the inner city. Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, 38, 724–728.

Thatcher

Metson

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Sepeng

(2024). Applying the sustainable system-of-systems framework: Wastewater(s) in a rapidly urbanising South African settlement. Ergonomics, 67(4), 450–466. https://doi.org/10.1080/00140139.2022.2068647

Human Factors for a Better World: Case Studies in Community Ergonomics

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