SANTA MONICA, CA - Various groups within the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society will hold events in observance of World Usability Day (November 12, 2009). Activities include the following:

The HFES Virginia Tech Student Chapter (HFES-VT) is screening the movie Objectified (http://www.objectifiedfilm.com/objectified-trailer/), a feature-length documentary about our complex relationship with manufactured objects and, by extension, the people who design them. Professor Rex Hartson, a pioneer of usability at Virginia Tech, will be providing a thought-provoking introduction to the film. In addition, HFES-VT has created a display case in the Graduate Life Center for World Usability Day. The display focuses on general ergonomics issues, technology usability principles, and other ways in which human factors/ergonomics research affects users in their daily lives.

The Tri-State Chapter is participating in the activities conducted by LexisNexis/Elsevier in Miamisburg, Ohio. Members will staff a display table during its poster/product demonstration session.

The University of Michigan Student Chapter presents the award for its 4th Annual Bad Designs On Campus competition on World Usability Day. Submissions for the award were submitted in October (National Ergonomics Month) and consisted of a description of the selected bad  design, including which HF/E principles it violates, and a recommendation on how to improve the existing design. This year, plans are to base a proposal for improvement of the bad design to university officials.

The San Jose State University Student Chapter visits the Microsoft Research Silicon Valley Campus on World Usability Day. Chapter members will tour the facility and learn about the different types of research conducted there.

The Wichita State University Student Chapter will conduct usability testing of the Mennonite Central Committee's Web site, http://mcc.org. In performing this service, chapter members emphasize the purpose and benefits of usability, in addition to helping an organization that aids those affected by natural disasters, poor water quality, hunger, and HIV/AIDS. This testing strives to reduce problems encountered by those wishing to gather information and donate to the causes of the Mennonite Central Committee using the organization's Web site.