Principles of work system performance optimization: A business ergonomics approach

Recently, there has been a growing interest in optimizing performance in the workplace. This interest is stimulated not only by economic and competitive pressures, but also by a growing awareness of the need to improve health and safety, thereby improving workplace wellness and vitality and, in turn, productivity. This article reviews the contributions of traditional approaches to work system performance optimization. These approaches include scientific management, work-time studies, industrial psychology, ergonomics, human factors, industrial engineering, total quality management, kaizen theory, systems theory, and operations research. The benefits, features, and drawbacks of each approach are discussed and tabulated. A basis for a new comprehensive methodology of work system performance optimization called the business ergonomics approach is then outlined and presented.