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Intermediary objects system: Strategies for structuring an ergonomic design approach
João Marcos Bittencourt1, Barbara de Macedo Passos Oggioni1, Camila Pinheiro Marins2
1Design and Technology Department, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói RJ, Brazil.
Work (Reading, Mass.)
|June 25, 2026
Summary
Ergonomists can enhance participatory design by using interconnected Intermediary Objects Systems (IOS). These systems of representations reinforce each other, improving knowledge construction and design decisions related to work activity.
Area of Science:
- Ergonomics
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Participatory Design
Background:
- Intermediary objects are crucial in ergonomics for supporting participatory design.
- The combined use of intermediary objects as interconnected systems is underexplored.
- Understanding object synergy can improve ergonomic interventions in design processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- Introduce the concept of Intermediary Objects System (IOS).
- Define IOS as sets of representations used across design stages.
- Explore how IOS aids in participatory design dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of two case studies: biotechnology laboratories and an onshore collaborative center.
- Ergonomists utilized diverse intermediary objects (e.g., blueprints, scale models).
- Objects were employed to stimulate discussion, engage users, and maintain project memory.
Main Results:
- Intermediary objects facilitated debates on work and collaborative problem-solving.
- Objects reinforced each other, creating cumulative knowledge construction.
- Synergy enabled direct connection between design decisions and work activity.
Conclusions:
- The Intermediary Objects System (IOS) concept expands understanding of intermediary objects in ergonomics.
- IOS highlights the value of multiple, interconnected intermediary objects in participatory design.
- Using IOS facilitates richer project discussions and knowledge accumulation for all stakeholders.
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