Peter Budnick had the honor and pleasure of presenting at the inaugural workshop for Ergonomists Without Borders (ErgonomistsWB*), an initiative of the Foundation for Professional Ergonomics (FPE). Delegates from India, Indonesia and Australia participated in the workshop, which focused on the broad topic of “Ergonomics and Business.” The workshop stressed the importance of defining the value ergonomics and ergonomists bring to business and customers, then effectively communicating that value so that business, whether it be small, medium or large, clearly understands and is able to realize that value. The workshop was well received, and the conference organizers requested a follow-up symposium so that a broader audience could participate. The symposium was held on Thursday, 03 August, 2010, and generated passionate audience participation in an extended question and answer session.
Peter also delivered a keynote address on Tuesday, 02 August 2010, titled “Introducing Ergonomists Without Borders.” The keynote address was attended by delegates from many countries, and has generated numerous questions and suggestions as to how the organization will proceed and succeed.
A primary message taken home from the conference is that a successful ergonomics process is one that is participatory in nature. That is, in order to realize the greatest benefits and value from ergonomics, people at all levels of an organization must actively understand, participate and share responsibility in its application. It was interesting that without any prior coordination or communication regarding this principle between the various speakers, it emerged as a central theme in most presentations.
Peter met many good people and shared in the excitement and possibilities that ErgonomistsWB brings. Peter would like to thank one person in particular, Prof. Adnyana Manuaba, the primary organizer of the EROGFUTURE gathering. His vision and passion for ergonomics was abundantly demonstrated throughout the week, and his efforts and support made it possible for ErgonomistsWB to contribute and learn from this international gathering.
* We recognize that ErgonomistsWB is a mouthful, or at least a typographical challenge, but EWB is already well established in use by Engineers Without Borders, so we’ve opted to use ErgonomistsWB.
