Human Factors and Ergonomics in Business Education

Abstract

Abstract

Human factors and ergonomics (HF/E) as a concept has been narrowed down to individual health and well-being and therefore excluded from business education as irrelevant. Such conceptualization neglects the synergistic goals of HF/E to simultaneously optimize individual well-being and overall system performance. Drawing on a systematic review of the literature on HF/E, we showcase that employee well-being and productivity are rarely integrated into the strategic management of firms in manufacturing industries. Moreover, the narrow interpretation of HF/E limits the possibilities to make human-centric decisions and, consequently, the ability to obtain various benefits that would contribute to productivity and firms’ better overall performance. The rapid growth of new technologies and the digitalization of work particularly require the highlighting of HF/E in managerial planning and the strategic renewal of the firm. Contradicting frequent erroneous expectations, the integration of new technologies or digitalized processes does not necessarily lead to better outcomes for the firm or individuals working in it. The benefits can only be reached if human-system interaction is designed and managed appropriately. To close the knowledge gap on HF/E in the strategic management of the firm, we present a framework that can be used when teaching (future) managers to integrate HF/E into strategy and its implementation. This framework can inform educators about the essential points of HF/E in strategy work and help to lead classroom discussions on this topic. As a result, our contribution helps address Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8—Decent work and economic growth.