Human factors in multi-purpose space design Kwantlen College Psychology Lab Redesign By Carolyn, Minna, Olha & Sanaz
What is the Kwantlen Psychology Lab? a multipurpose room used for»computer programs and simulations»quiet study»group discussions»make-up exams»lounging & hanging out»accessing instructor offices
How does it look?
Purpose of this Project Develop a proposal with recommendations to improve the usability & functionality of the Kwantlen Psychology Lab space at the Richmond campus.
Foundations for Redesign: Based upon Dr. D s Principles of Design & Ergonomic Concepts Design should be human-centered Environment should be adapted to the user, not the user to the environment Primary goal is to enhance human performance, safety & usability Design and Functions should be intuitive Design should be flexible for»multiple functions and purposes»diverse users and tasks
Steps to Compile Data & Ideas Brainstorming with Psychology Lab Staff Consulting with Certified Ergonomists Observing users & their interaction with the space & equipment Conducting user surveys Using Computer Imaging Performing statistical analysis
User Survey combination of closed & open ended questions completed by 50 anonymous Kwantlen University College students collected during a one week period in March 2006
User Survey Analysis Responses were: transcribed analyzed to identify:» primary functions of the space» user groups
Functions of the Psychology Lab: Usage of the space according to survey responses 82% % of surveyed 46% 26% 24% 8% 8% using computers & programs consulting with Lab TAs & Instructors studying writing assignments group meetings make up exams
User Profile The typical student user of the Psychology lab according to the survey responses received, is:»majoring in Psychology»in their 1st year of study»21 years old The users are almost an even mix of both males and females
User profile: Major of Studies Sociology (n=1) General (n=1) Chemistry (n=1) Business (n=1) Biology (n=1) Accounting (n=1) English (n=3) Arts (n=6) Criminology (n=7) Psychology (n=25) 2% 2% 2% 2% 2% 2% 6% 12% 14% 50% % of surveyed
User profile: Year of Studies 4 th year 2% 3 rd year 16% 2 nd year 34% 1 st year 38% % of surveyed
User profile: Lab facilities usage According to the survey results, the typical user accesses the space once per week 1 hour per visit
User profile: The Average Statistics 54% of students sign-in when entering lab 20 % of Students borrow articles & books available in the lab
User Feedback Things student users would like to change: Chairs - are uncomfortable Equipment - computers are old
User Feedback Things lab staff users would like to change: Chairs & Tables - uncomfortable Equipment computers too old Billboards not enough wall space Increase number of workstations TA s working space reorganization
Lab Work Space: A Room of 7 doors
Lab Work Space: A Room of 7 doors
Problems Sign in sheet: nonintuitive location Entrance to Lab Worksheets & resources: inconvenient location
Solutions Joined Sign-in & Worksheets areas Sign-in Worksheets Worksheets
Problems & Solutions TA area: not clearly defined, poorly positioned Designated TA work space Adjustable Chairs Chairs: limited adjustment - uncomfortable
Problems & Solutions Equipment: old, slow and bulky Upgraded Computers & low profile monitors Glare Issues Computer Screens: Perpendicular to Windows
Problems & Solutions Bulletin Board: poorly organized, space usage not optimized Topic Topic Topic Topic Categorize Topics Pockets for Handouts & Information Topic
Problems & Solutions Equipment storage: poorly organized, not visible, dusty Increase storage space, glass doors
Proposed design Increased number of PC workstations Clear & Visible Sign- In Location Flip-Out Poster Boards to Organize Wall Space
Design Based on Client Preferences Preferred Tables Set-Up
TA s room: Too Small for Two Bulletin board: cluttered, non-vital documents Documents and items: poorly organized, lacking designated space
Problems Non-accessible one way mirror Lack of table space Only One Work Station
Solutions: divide & conquer Movable covering for one-way mirror Install additional work station Create space for personal items (ie. coats, bags, etc) Utilize upper wall space for storage
Design Based on Client Preferences Mail Slot: relocated for increased security
Quiet Study Room: The Box Bookshelves: books difficult to access One way mirrors: Big Brother?
Quiet Study Room: The Box TV & other equipment: blocks access, occupies space Work station: clearance issues - too close to swinging door
Solutions: Out of the box Relocate bookshelves - more accessible Cozy chat place Increase clearance space for door Provide curtains/screen for one way mirrors Increase usable space - relocate equipment
Design Based on Client Preferences Couch space for lounging and relaxing
Environmental Issues & Solutions Lighting: fluorescent lighting with a motion sensor switch Noise Level: high Full spectrum lighting Provide a vertical slider dimmer switch for lighting control Replace computers with models with less fan noise Provide head phones for computers
Equipment Issues & Solutions Out-dated Electronic Equipment New laser printer & scanner (preferably: All In One), low profile monitors (preferably: Flat Screens), new computers Portable Laptops for short term use in the lab Set up wireless network to permit laptop use
Source: The Queen s University Ergonomic Consulting Program, http://www.safety.queensu.ca/qecp/
Proposed Ergonomic Solutions Flat Panel Desk- Mount Monitor Arm Adjustable footrest Chair Mid-Height Back Rest Task Seating with optional adjustable arm rests
Proposed Ergonomic Solutions CPU holder Adjustable Keyboard Folding light-weight ladder
The Solution: Client Centered
The Solution: Client Centered
Conclusion Human factors & ergonomic principles were combined in the redesign of the multi-purpose space The recommendations are based on a humancentered approach, with the intent of increasing the usability, functionality & flexibility of the space A written proposal outlining the recommendations will be provided to the client for evaluation & implementation
Take Home Message Pick Pick Our Our Proposal! Proposal!
Take Home Message The design of common spaces must be done with consideration to the various user groups, while maintaining flexibility for a mixture of functions.