This guide to types of sources is aimed at helping you know where to find information on universal design and human factors. Boundaries aren't always clear but in general:
- Books (print & electronic) give background information and bring together information from the research literature. Think of books if you are looking for:
- Historical background and philosophical foundations.
- Design fundamentals and also design details.
- Research papers (usually journal articles and conference papers) report on the newest experimentation, and also give details of past work.
- Data sets help with ergonomic design by providing measurements of human bodies and reactions of human brains.
- Older sets were often collected in books or technical reports --- these may be available as e-books.
- A research paper that reports on the collection of a data set may include the set or point to it.
- Newer sets are likely to be deposited in a data repository.
- Industry standards & Guidelines provide both guiding principles and specific details concerning design of facilities and access to them.
- Various groups --- government offices, professional organizations, standards agencies --- produce these documents.
- Building and accessibility standards may have the force of law.
- Other standards and guidelines help designers know what is expected by the community.
