Prevention of work-related stress in practice: A participatory approach

Boundary objects may play an important role in collaborative design processes. Such objects can help participants with different background to better communicate and take part in a design process. The aim of this study is to explore the role of boundary objects in participatory ergonomics and to find out what characterizes boundary objects.

The study lists eight characteristics of boundary objects and set up a framework for the conceptualization of boundary objects in collaborative design of workplaces. The framework emphasizes the need not to focus solely on the boundary object per se but also include the context of its usage and its capacity to sustain and circulate the outcomes of collaborate design processes.