Design aspects of the Burroughs ET 1100 ergonomic workstation

Abstract

The Burroughs ET 1100 ergonomic workstation is a general purpose data communications system composed of a display unit and a cable-connected keyboard. It is intended for use in full-time work or continuous-use situations, therefore every effort was made to take ergonomic considerations into account. This paper describes the design process, the limitations provided to the design staff and the resulting product which was released in April 1983. A number of interacting variables needed to be balanced to ensure that one feature had not been optimized to the detriment of another. In addition to the manufacturers interest in the product it was important that it be installed properly, therefore additional measures were taken to educate users and managers about desirable environmental characteristics.