Human Factors was one of the more challenging courses I had during my time at O.D.U. as I was not versed on the subject. While I selected the course to meet the Psychology Minor requirements, I knew that it would be beneficial to my entrepreneurship career goals. At its core, Human Factors is centers on the importance of creating user-centered environments. Building a coaching practice absolutely requires knowledge and understanding of human factors practices. Further, the successful completion of this course would show my dedication to my clients' experiences. Professor Chen's lectures and coursework requirements helped me grasp and apply the material in real-world applications which I feel greatly helped my success in the course. The weekly required video submissions on module topics were a plus.

​

Human Factors emphasis on the importance of creating user-centered environments is broken down into several content areas all entrepreneurs should be versed in. The first is user-centered design. Successful application of human factors practices in user-centered design focuses on addressing clients' real-world problems in a functional way that creates value for them. This drives innovation and differentiates entrepreneurs from their competition, building strong client loyalty. Addressing clients' real-world problems shows the entrepreneur's problem-solving and decision-making skills, fostering a proactive and user-centered approach. Human Factors content on cognition, perception, and human behavior becomes a resource for strategic and adaptable processes and decision-making that drives growth. Ultimately, as human factors centers the user, entrepreneurs who keep that at the forefront of all user experiences and relationships will long-term, exponential success in their professional journeys!

​

In the context of resilience work, the user-centered approach of human factors becomes even more integral. The wide array of varying thoughts and meanings on resilience will require understanding each individual client's specific needs and challenges. Applying knowledge learned concerning human behavior and cognitive processes can assist in creating tailored coaching programming that will engage and empower clients toward meeting their goals leading to more positive outcomes and client satisfaction. User-Centered Programming ill should be clear and concise, relevant, and accessible.This tailored programming, combined with a tell-thought out delivery helps create an effective, impactful, and sustainable coaching practice.

 

All of this would not be possible without some communication foundations, especially as human factors centers around the user experience. As such, entrepreneurs who implement communication foundations alongside human factors principles can create inclusive and supportive environments where clients can thrive, building rapport and earning trust. Employing effective communication skills, emphasizing empathy and understanding, and fostering safety and inclusivity as part of the user-centered experience is what strengthens and sustains meaningful connections in a resilience work. A human factors application to resilience coaching will have lasting impacts well beyond the coach-client relationship!