Krzysztof Hankiewicz

An Ergonomic Evaluation of the Adaptation of Polish Online Stores to the Needs of the Elderly

Recently websites have been a key intermediary in the exchange of information. The share of trade conducted based on online services transactions is also dynamically growing. Among people using online services and communicating this way, are now also the elderly. These are often people whose first contact with these technologies occurred during adulthood. Many of elderly people did not use a computer in their work, and their first contact with the Internet has been during their retirement. In conclusion, the currently operating focus in Poland on young online shoppers is faulty. With the increasing proportion of elderly people in Polish society and the dissemination of computer technology among them, the need for senior-friendly online stores will grow. The choice of this form of purchase will be decided by convenience, price, range of goods and delivery terms. However, the ultimate determinants of whether elderly users will enjoy the benefits of online shopping are the ergonomic features of services, particularly criteria such as: security, ease of use, rule transparency and ascetic aesthetics.

Efficiency in Performing Basic Tasks Using Word Processing Programs by the Elderly as a Measure of the Ergonomic Quality of Software

Computers and the opportunities they offer are no longer the domain of the young, and the ability to use a multitude of computer software has become a basic skill both in private and professional life. Therefore, it is no wonder that increasing attention is paid to the design of interfaces adapted well to groups of users with specific needs, like the elderly. Such measures are broadly reflected in scientific works, however, commonly available software is rarely marked by an adequate concern for the needs of seniors. Additionally, the elderly usually gain access and opportunity to work on a computer during old age, being outpaced by their younger, and somewhat more predisposed to computer technology, colleagues. The prevalence of computer needs and growing number of elderly people means that seniors are condemned to using computers. How effectively and enthusiastically they will use them will be largely dependent on the ergonomic quality of the offered software.

Compatibility of Information and Interface of Universities’ Multilingual Websites

The article presents results of research regarding the use of Polish university websites to handle the affairs of foreign students. The study included 57 faculties in 8 universities of different size and type.