The Importance of Ergonomics and Workplace Design

Productivity has always been a main goal of many organizations.  But how productivity is enhanced has changed greatly over the past several years.  Today, many organizations and companies are concerned with the ergonomics and workplace design of their business because, if constructed and executed properly, they can have a significant impact on the productivity of employees. Based on the OSHA website, ergonomics is "the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the working population".  Ergonomics seeks to incorporate comfort, efficiency, and safety into the design of items on the job site.  The main focus of these aspects are concentrated on the chair, keyboard, display device, and work surface.  Based on the information found in Discovering Computers and Microsoft Office 2007, the viewing angle of the screen to the user should be 20 degrees to the center of the screen and the viewing distance should be 18-28 inches.  The keyboard height should be 23-28 inches, with an adjustable height chair with 4 to 5 legs for stability, wheels can also be beneficial.  The workers feet should be flat on the floor and the elbows at about a 90 degree angle with one's arms and hands approximately parallel to the floor. The picture below is another good resource for information about proper workplace ergonomics.

 A well designed workplace that is ergonomic is said to help, "assure high productivity, avoidance of illness and injury risks, and increased satisfaction among the workforce" according to OSHA.  However, all of this information has to be flexible to adjust for the differences in human sizes, shapes, and health needs.  To help solve this ergonomics problem of differing human size, "the development of effective digital human modeling
capabilities seems to be a logical next step for dramatically improving the cycle time, quality, and cost of producing ergonomically efficient designs" according to Don B. Chaffin.  Being able to use human models, and even better the now digital human model, greatly increases the effectiveness and likeliness of producing a highly successful ergonomic workplace component, such as new chairs or user friendly desks.  Being able to quickly change the digital model size, also reduces the time traditionally needed with live human models to try out prototypes of products, thus resulting in better more effective products reaching the marketplace sooner.  Below is a chart to help visualize the benefits of having an ergonomically designed workplace.

Ergonomics and workplace design are essential elements to a happy workforce and subsequently an enjoyable job with higher productivity.  Although the importance might seem minimal, ergonomics can greatly impact a company. 

The following information was found in/on:

• Discovering Computers and Microsoft Office 2007 by Shelly and Vermatt and is a product of Cengage Learding.

• http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/ergonomics/

• http://scholar.googleusercontent.com/scholar?q=cache:TTxY0nuebHIJ:scholar.google.com/+workplace+design&hl=en&as_sdt=0,44&as_vis=1

The two pictures are from:

• http://worksmartergonomics.com/Why_Ergonomics_.html

• http://eperez17ism3004.blogspot.com/2011/01/tutorial-1-injury-prevention-in.html

Choices, Choices...

With the continually growing market for computers, companies are trying to keep up with the latest additions and gadgets.  One way they does this is by creating or enhancing an operating system (OS).  I currently have two different OS, one on my laptop and one on my desktop.  Here I will describe some of the various features of the 2 OS.  First, my desktop which is a Windows 7 Home Premium.

1.  One of the interesting features that Windows 7 has is its capability to create a home group.  With this application, the user can easily connect 2 or more PCs so that all are connected to one group that makes sharing and printing from multiple locations easier.  This system is security password protected and all documents can be adjusted for varying levels of privacy and sharing.  Here is a quick video to explain more:    
2. Another feature that Windows 7 has is the ability to watch Internet TV in one general location.  This feature collects many of the shows and videos from various websites on the Internet and puts them in one general location under the Windows Media Center.  Another plus, a TV tuner is not required.  Although most of these videos are free, some like Netflix do cost.  However, having all the sites in one location is very convenient, especially when it is sorted by genre. To the right is the screen you will see when you first open the Media Center.   
3. The Windows 7 OS also has 64-bit Support. This is a large plus for the computer because not only can it handle more RAM and memory, it can also help the computer run more quickly and efficiently when many programs are operating at once.  All of the Windows 7 packages (except home basic), are equipped with 64-bit support, but also compatible with 32-bit systems.  One can check compatibility on their control panel.  
4. A unique feature that Windows 7 Home Premium has is Shake.  This feature allows the user to quickly de-clutter their workspace by simply clicking on the pane of the screen desired to remain up and shaking, making all the others collapse to the space bar.  This feature is part of the new Aero experience.  To the right is a video to future explain.
5. A nice security feature that Windows 7 offers is Parental Controls.  This feature allows the user to control when, how much, and what children are allowed to do on computers.  This feature is also in the Windows Media Center, so questionable material can be blocked.  The Windows Live Family Safety is a free programs that complements the Parental Controls, which helps manage websites and provides convenient reports about activity on-line.

 The information for the above is referenced from: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/compare


 My second operating system is for my laptop, which is the Windows XP OS.  This system also has many nice features.  Here I will explain 5 of them:

1. The first feature is Faster User Switching.  This allows the user "fast user switching using terminal services to maintain a separate user state for each user currently logged on to the system".  This is quite handy because it allows for multiple users on one common computer to use the applications and software without having to shut out of the first user's account. This feature can be found by clicking the Windows Icon in the task bar and selecting the "Switch User" choice.
2. Another feature is ClearType. "ClearType is a mechanism for drawing on the screen that takes advantage of the ability to address at the sub-pixel level on color LCD screens. Text displayed in ClearType appears sharper than when drawn using the standard anti-aliasing technique which is also supported on Windows XP" OS.  This feature can be very efficient and increase productivity for the user optimizing this feature.  To the right is an example.
3. GDI+ is also a new feature for the Windows XP OS.  GDI+ is a new graphics library that builds on the pre-existing GDI capabilities.  GDI+ is a set of class libraries that allows for easier integration into C++ programs. GDI+ also has interesting features of its own including, "gradient brushes, persistent path objects, scaleable regions, and a matrix object".  This application is much more efficient and convenient than the simple GDI application, which will help in all other aspects of the computer's functionality.  
4. Windows XP also has Outlook Express 6 installed.  This allows users to more easily send and receive messages, be apart of newsgroups, organize contacts, and even set up a daily, monthly, and yearly calender.  This allows the user access to many organizational features and applications to increase productivity.  
5. Plug and Play is also found on the Windows XP OS.  This feature is to help users to have access to support for installing devices on computers in the users network.  All the user has to do is insert a Plug and Play device and let the computer do the rest of the work.  The device knows how to install, allocate, and maintain all the features needed for the device.  

This information for the above is referenced from: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/cc302210.aspx and http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb490837.aspx
 

Never Stop Learning

The learning section of the Special Feature is all about how learning is a lifelong process. From the book, I discovered that there are many services for free to the computer user.  Some of these services are how to articles from HowStuffWorks website, internet library article access, and cooking tips and recipes.  The websites visited offer sites that are easy to use, but cover the topic fully. People want to help others and websites and services are out there and available.  From doing the exercises, I more fully understood the capabilities of these websites.  They offer many services for the everyday chef, science whiz, and more.  They seem to be very up-to-date with the current trends and information so that the users have the best and most accurate findings.  

Exercises:

1: According to research, there are 6 basic steps to installing new RAM memory.  These steps are as follows:

1. Turn off the computer, unplug it, and take off the cover.
2. Locate the memory slots.
3. Remove the old memory. This will entail pressing down on the little ejector clips on each end of the memory socket until the memory stick pops out of the socket. Then simply lift it out.
4. Install the RAM. To do this, first locate the little notches on the pin-side of the module. These notches will line up with keys on the memory socket itself, to ensure proper alignment. With the ejector clips in the open position, position the module over the slot and begin pressing the module down into the slot. You will need to press down pretty hard. As you press down, the module will sink into place and the ejector clips will close themselves to lock the module into place.
5. Repeat previous step for all remaining DIMMs you wish to install.
   6. Test it. Before you put your case back on, power on your system and make sure it correctly tallies the RAM.
6. Close up the case.
    

   This information was found at http://www.computermemoryupgrade.net/installing-computer-memory.html

   
   

   From the HowStuffWorks website, I discovered information about starting nonprofits and dealing with the IRS.  In this article it describes how each type of 501(c)(3) is held to a specific set of guidelines to obtain and keep IRS nonprofit status.  It then continues on to describe the paperwork that will need to be completed.  It includes incorporation paperwork, which explains how your organization will qualify as a charitable organization.  They also suggest doing paperwork promptly to ensure no fees or late policies are imposed, sometimes resulting in revoking the permit if not completed in a timely manner. It also explains how the organization needs to be categorized and the services to be offered if being considered a nonprofit charitable organization.

   
   

   
   

   2: Recipes

   The following information is from Foodnetwork.com

   I chose to research quick and easy weeknight meals that are healthy for the busy college student.  One such recipe that sounded tasty was Chicken Cacciatore.  The required ingredients are: 

   • 4 skinless chicken breast halves on the bone, about 2 pounds
   • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
   • 2 teaspoons olive oil
   • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
   • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
   • 1/2 pound white mushrooms, thinly sliced
   • 2 garlic cloves, minced
   • 1/2 cup dry white wine
   • 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can whole tomatoes in juice, chopped and juice reserved
   • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
   • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes or more to taste

   To prepare this tasty meal, the following steps must be taken: 
   • Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

   • Heat the oil in a saute pan over moderately-high heat. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 8 minutes. Remove the chicken.

   • Reduce the heat to moderate. Add the onion and pepper, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms begin to brown. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add the wine and cook until reduced by half. Add the tomatoes and juice, oregano, red pepper flakes and 1/4 teaspoon of salt and simmer the mixture covered for 10 minutes.

   • Return the chicken breasts to the pan and simmer, covered, until the chicken is just done, about 20 minutes longer.

   And that is all it takes.  Want another tasty recipe, try this one.  It is also a healthy and fast meal that a college student with a stove could cook. It is Chicken and Bean Burrito Verde.  The ingredients are:
    

   • 4 teaspoons olive oil
   • 1 small onion, diced
   • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
   • 1 15-ounce can of low-sodium white beans, rinsed and drained
   • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
   • 1/2 teaspoon, plus a pinch, of salt
   • 2 cups lightly packed shredded romaine lettuce (about 3 large leaves)
   • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves
   • 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
   • Freshly ground black pepper
   • 4 whole wheat flour tortillas (about 9 inches in diameter)
   • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, skinless (a breast and thigh of a rotisserie chicken)
   • 1 jalapeno finely diced
   • 1/2 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
   • 1/2 cup tomatillo salsa
   • 1/2 cup low-fat Greek-style yogurt

   Although it is a lengthy amount of ingredients, the result is worth it.  Follow these directions to see the result:
   • Heat 2 teaspoons of the oil in a medium skillet. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cumin and cook for 30 seconds more. Add the beans, broth and 1/2 teaspoon of salt and cook until warmed through, about 2 minutes. Transfer the bean mixture to the small bowl of a food processor and process until smooth.

   • Put the lettuce, cilantro, the remaining 2 teaspoons of oil, lime juice, a pinch of salt and a few turns of pepper in a medium bowl and toss to coat.

   • Wrap the tortillas in paper towel and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds.

   • To build the burrito, spread 1/3 cup of the bean puree in the center of a warm tortilla. Sprinkle with about 2 teaspoons of jalapeno. Top with 1/2 cup of shredded chicken, then 1/2 cup of the lettuce mixture and 2 slices of avocado. Wrap into a burrito. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

   • Serve with the salsa and yogurt alongside.

   Next Step? Enjoy!  What I enjoy so much about using the Food Network site is the ease of use and the features.  On each recipe it lists the nutrition information, the TV chef who made it, there show( for future reference), other recipes that are similar or by the same chef, reviews, and that is just to name a few features.  Also Food Network, as well as Betty Crocker, both offer online recipe books to maintain favorite recipes and discover new ones.  There are both advantages and disadvantages to offering these services in new kitchen and smartphone devices.  The advantages is always having the information available when needed.  Also, it keeps for easy maintenance and record keeping.  A disadvantage however, is that one will not be able to pass these recipes on to their children; they will be deleted when the account is deactivated.  Another disadvantage is that it is another form of technology that is probably not kitchen friendly, with all the water, popping oil, and slimy foods.  
   Recipes are a great way to build family time and learn new things.  Always remember to spend time with the ones you love, and NEVER stop learning.
    
   
   

Let's Pack Up and Move to California!

Like the popular Hawk Nelson song "California", packing up and moving to California doesn't sound too bad as the semester is beginning to really get busy.  However, before moving I might want to consider simply traveling to California.  To plan this little getaway, the textbook suggests using a cartography Website and/or other general travel websites.  My chosen location for this little trip is Anaheim, California, home to Disneyland, apparently one of the happiest places on Earth.  To track the times and mileage of the trip, I am using MapQuest, a popular cartography website.  There is 1075.69 miles between Anaheim and West Texas A&M University and the estimated driving time is 15 hours and 31 minutes if driving on Interstate 40 West.  However, this time does not include breaks, meals, and even the possibly an overnight stay.  
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In order to decrease the travel time and the stress of driving, I am choosing to fly out to Anaheim. I will fly out of the Amarillo International Airport on May 21st and arrive at the Los Angeles International Airport.  I chose a flight with Continental Airlines, flight number 6032, which leaves Amarillo at 12:49 PM and arrives in Los Angeles at 5:54 PM.  After my week long excursion I will return to Amarillo on May 28th using Frontier Airlines, flight number 414, that leaves the Los Angeles International Airport at 2:15 PM and arrives in Amarillo at 9:43.  It will be quite the trip, but an enjoyable one.

But as for now, this weekend I am going to make a quick trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park to go hiking.  Guadalupe Mountains has a rich and long history and I believe appears to be one of the most beautiful places on Earth.  The National Park contains Texas’ highest point Guadalupe Peak at 8,749 feet.  The park’s other prominent features are El Capitan, a massive limestone formation; McKittrick Canyon, with its unique flora and fauna; and the "Bowl", located in a high country conifer forest. Guadalupe Mountain National Park is a made mainly of a mountain mass and contains portions of the world's most sweeping and significant Permian limestone fossil reef. Other features at the park are a tremendous earth fault, lofty peaks, unusual flora and fauna, and a colorful record of the past.  Within the park, there are over 80 miles of trails that offer a many varying opportunities for exploring. The park also features prominent outdoor park activities such as backpacking, camping, and wildlife viewing, much like Palo Duro Canyon State Park. When at the Park, guests are also able to view the ruins of a stage station, or visit the Frijole Ranch History Museum, although it is only periodically opened.  Although no lodging is provided at the Park, camping is allowed and the experience is priceless.  The weather for the winter is generally the same as the Panhandle with mild to cold days and cool to cold nights.  There are not many planned tours but activities are wide-ranging for all activity levels and interests.  There is an entrance fee of $5.00 per person but the fee is good for 7 days.  There are additional permits required for camping and horseback riding, but these are free. Below are images of the park.   

I selected this destination because of the proximity to the Panhandle and the diverse activities and scenery available.  I will travel to Guadalupe Mountains Park by car and below is the breakdown of the expected costs for this weekend getaway.  To complete this exercise I used the U.S.-Parks US National Parks Travel Guide at www.us-parks.com. 

   

The Travel article in the Special Feature section is all about traveling and planning the vacation or trip.  This article hopes to enlighten the reader about the various services available to consumers through internet websites.  I learned that there are many more opportunities to save on travel is one researches and utilizes resources available.  Through the activities I learned that the websites strive to be easily accessible and have an ease of use in an attempt to gain you as a customer.  There are many websites that strive to help people plan their vacation of a lifetime, offering many services and information. 
   
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The Power of One

Truly believing that there is power in just one person's actions, I am pursuing a degree in Sociology so that I will be prepared to work in the nonprofit sector of society.  Sociology can encompass many different career avenues, but all require the use of a variety of computers.  Because of this, computer literacy is pivotal to be able to succeed in this competitive career field.  One of the main components of any area of Sociology is the use of statistics and statistics software.  Statistics can be rather confusing and time consuming but are essential to Sociology.  To reduce these problems, programs have now been designed for the computer such as SPSS to aid the worker in statistics development and analysis.  This is one example of why computer literacy is crucial for Sociology. 

Computer literacy is also vital for Sociology because it expands the resources and ability to use these resources available to sociologist more than ever before.  These new resources have been fundamental to new findings and have helped solve many sociological problems.  Being up-to-date with computers allows the sociologist to access these new resources and utilize them to the fullest.  By being computer literate, sociologist can also develop new resources that will not only aide them in their research and careers, but also in their colleagues.

Being computer literate is also important because it will not only help the sociologist succeed in their career, but it will also help the people they are assisting.  Take the Make-A-Wish Foundation for example.  If their workers were not computer literate, they would be eliminating many available resources, volunteers, and donors.  Without computer literacy, the workers would be unable to keep up with the changing internet possibly eliminating online donations, volunteer sign-ups, or any other fundamental nonprofit resource.  These are just a few reasons why being computer literate is important to the area of sociology.  Computer literacy has become vital if anyone wants to succeed in their career and advance their business, nonprofit, or any other career.