Definitions

Physical Ergonomics examines how people interact with their physical environment, including the postures they adopt, the tools they use, and how they sit or stand at their workspace. The primary goal is injury prevention, though it also encompasses performance optimization. Applications include the design, evaluation, and modification of workplaces and workstations.

Cognitive Ergonomics focuses on people's ability to process information within a given system. Its scope is broad, ranging from the design of lighting and signage to the analysis of mental workload, decision-making, and organizational training. The overall goal is to balance mental demand so that people can function at their best.

Macroergonomics takes a big-picture view of how the separate elements of a work system interact, and focuses on optimizing those interactions for better performance across individuals and entire organizations. It draws on both physical and cognitive ergonomics, while also addressing organization-wide communication, work design, and resource management.