Gender Differences

04/25/98

Source of Differences

• Biological
• Anatomical
• Social Roles Defined by Culture
• Clothing and Adornment
• Cognition

Impact of Biological/Anotomical Differences

• Activities
• Anthropometrics
• Biomechanic capacity
• Aging

Impact of Social Role Differences

• Different occupational hazards
• Equality in the workplace
• Cognitive load - work and family
• Break time activities
• Communications
• Equipment and furniture design

Impact of Clothing and Adornment Fashions

• Protective qualities
• Durability and cost
• Movement and activity restrictions
• Stability

Cognition

• Previous experience
• Attitudes and values, e.g. affiliation
• Meaning

Considering Gender in Ergonomic Design

• Analyze user population mix
• Identify relevant differences
• Identify key design factors
• Determine appropriate design criteria

Anthropometric Issues

• Body parts
• Body size - seating, reach
• Work envelope design
• Clothing factor in measurements
• Storage needs
• Priorities and sensitivity

Biomechanic Issues

• Clothing and movement
• Time of activity , e.g. potty parity
• Operating forces
• Interaction with anthropometrics
• Stamina
• Aging and target population

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