The development of methods for the design of work environments has a long history within human factors and ergonomics (Hendrick, 1991; Stanton et al., 2013). Recent discussions have centred on the effectiveness of macroergonomic methods in facilitating improvements to workplace design. The aim of the panel will be to summarise these and other debates surrounding methods within HFE. The panel will first discuss the use of mixed methods within macroergonomics and the role these can play in applying a whole systems approach to the design of work (Carayon), as well as validating research findings (Hoonakker). Holden will describe his use of macroergonomic methods with chronically ill patients in community settings. New approaches involving the use of methods to facilitate participatory approaches towards health and safety interventions (Robertson) and simulation (Hettinger) will also be discussed as part of the panel. The panel will conclude with a consideration of the trade-offs between scientific and practice-oriented criteria for assessing the effectiveness of methods (Waterson).
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