Data entry workers perceptions and satisfaction response to the "Stop and Stretch" software program

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Trujillo, Leonard | Zeng, Xiaoming

Affiliations: East Carolina University, LAHN Building, Occupational Therapy Rm 3305-H, Greenville, NC 27858-4353, USA. Tel.: +1 252 328 2755; Fax: +1 252 328 4470; E-mail: [email protected] | Department of Health Services and Information Management, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author

Abstract: Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD) is a collection of chronic musculoskeletal disorders caused by frequent, sustained, and repetitive movements, most notably by computer usage at the workplace. A computer based break reminder program (Stop and Stretch) has been developed and installed to prevent CTDs caused by prolonged computer usage at the workplace. We investigated users' opinions to the Stop and Stretch program at their work place. 19 computer users were recruited as the subjects of the study. We conducted a survey after all the subjects used the Stop and Stretch program for one month. Among the nineteen subjects, 52.5% or 10 noticed a difference of symptoms after using the program; 63.3% or 12 thought the program had positive effect on their productivity; 100% or all 19 thought the program was easy to follow; 100% or all 19 thought it was helpful; 94.7% or18 were satisfied with the program; and the same value would recommend the program to others. When grouped into those who had prior experience with using stretch and exercise as part of their work routine15 subjects had no prior experience; and 14 participants within that group were satisfied or very satisfied with the program; 93.3% or 14 would recommend it to co-workers; and over half of those 15 thought the program is easy to use. The study provided insight to the response to using "stretch break software" and provided indicators of satisfaction with the Stop and Stretch program and that the program had sufficient usability and acceptance within a workplace setting which might be applied in other work settings similar to these.

Journal: Work, vol. 27, no. 2, pp. 111-121, 2006