Qualitative Human Factors Research Methods

Abstract

Human factors engineering (HFE) research informs how medical devices should be designed to provide a safe, effective, and satisfying experience. This research involves a human-centered approach—that is, keeping the user at the heart of all design decisions regardless of scope. This chapter begins by exploring what it means to follow a human-centered design (HCD) approach. It then provides the foundation for conducting qualitative HFE research, addressing specific methods, tools, and approaches. These topics include case studies, observational methods, interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, and contextual inquiry.