Abstract
Recent studies have found that split keyboards reduce ulnar deviation and may reduce musculoskeletal discomfort. The present investigation focused on two split keyboards: a desk-mounted split keyboard (DMSK) and a chair-mounted split keyboard (CMSK), and compared them to a standard keyboard on several variables including user satisfaction, musculoskeletal discomfort, and typing performance. Six office workers used the split keyboards for several weeks in their daily work. Survey results indicated that overall satisfaction was higher with the DMSK than the CMSK or the standard keyboard. A closer look revealed that users felt that the DMSK and the CMSK provided superior comfort, whereas the DMSK and standard keyboard were seen as superior in terms of performance and effectiveness. Typing speed was fastest on the standard keyboard, followed by the DMSK and then the CMSK with no significant differences for the number of typing errors. This study demonstrates the importance of studying ergonomic designs in actual work settings.
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