Self-Service Elevator Control Panels,a Survey of User Preference

Abstract

Historically little systematic Human Factors Engineering has been done on the development of elevator control panels. This survey had participants develop a numerical arrangement within a given configuration. Results compare the preferences of Human Factors specialists (about half the participants) with laymen in numerical configuration, shape coding preference, and sequence of assist buttons (open, close, emergency). A photographic survey examines the variety of control panels that can be found in public buildings and makes recommendations for improving the man-machine interface.