At IAD, we rely on a wide range of analysis methods to accurately identify user requirements for technical systems, user interfaces, workplaces and -processes and to design them based on the latest scientific findings. Using the persona method, we develop user models that represent key user groups and help us to derive specific requirements of the relevant target groups. International, European and national design standards are also incorporated into our work. In order to gather requirements directly from future users and relevant stakeholders, we often use a variety of survey techniques – from personal interviews and focus groups to online questionnaires.

To make new ideas tangible and test them cost-effectively, the knowledge gained from the user requirement analysis leads directly into the development of prototypes if required – from paper prototypes to VR models and interactive prototypes of user interfaces, which we design using software such as Figma or ProtoPie. We also use virtual ergonomics to simulate products, workplaces and -processes with 3D modelling and analysis software such as ema Work Designer and thus identify optimization potential in terms of physical workload and efficiency at an early stage.

Existing products, workplaces and -processes as well as developed prototypes undergo comprehensive evaluation procedures. These include both evaluations with potential end users in studies and with experts by our experienced team. In the evaluations, we measure criteria such as acceptance, trust, usability, user experience and influences on user behavior as well as user stress and strain profiles.

In addition to survey techniques, the IAD's advanced technical equipment, including modern measurement systems, supports these studies: Examples include body force measurements, motion analyses using motion capture systems, eye-tracking analyses and physiological measurements. In addition, we occasionally use behavioral observations and video analyses to record and analyze user behavior and interaction patterns. To carry out user studies, the IAD has specialized research environments, laboratories and infrastructure such as a biomechanics laboratory, a cooperative robot and adaptive manual assembly workstations, a virtual reality lab, driving simulators and the August Euler Airfield testing ground for driving studies under realistic conditions.

For workplace and risk assessments, on-site inspections and stress analyses of physical and environmental conditions are carried out. For this purpose, we use expert screening procedures such as the Ergonomic Assessment Worksheet (EAWS) developed by MTM and IAD. The results of our evaluations form a valuable basis for specific design recommendations that are directly incorporated into the human-centered development and optimization of interactive and work systems.