Frequently Asked Questions
The following section answers many of the most common questions people have about our products:
Q: I seem to be taking my breaks but the ErgoMeter does not go down. What am I doing wrong?
A: Often, users' perceptions of their time on the computer differ from the actual activity they're engaged in on the computer. This is both normal and expected. Careful review of ergonomic data log files, over the past decade, has shown without exception that whenever a user 'felt' they were taking a break but were not credited with the break in the ergonomic tool that, in fact, they were still mousing or lightly keying. Try to either completely take a brief break for your own benefit next time. If you feel you're being alerted too frequently, then you can easily change the sensitivity of the ergonomic tool to meet your expectations.
Q: Will the software slow my system down?
A:No. The keystroke and mouse monitor are very fast. You will not notice a performance change as long as the machine meets the minimum requirements.
Q: Can I ignore alerts?
A: Normally, you can easily dismiss alerts unless you configure them to be mandatory. It is your choice. Naturally, we recommend taking the breaks.
Q: What if I am very busy while an alert is triggered?
A: Unless the system has been configured for mandatory breaks you can continue working as usual.
Q: Does the software require a lot of memory?
A: No, CPU and bandwidth usage is specifically designed to be very low.
Q: Can I get a discount?
A: You can contact sales@smartergo.com for more information about pricing and volume discounts.
Q: Won't the program think I am typing if I just leave a book on the keyboard?
A: No. ErgoSuite only counts UP keystrokes. Repeat keys don't count.
Q: Do ALT, CONTROL, and SHIFT keys count?
A: Yes.
Q: I use a trackball or touchpad. Is this counted under mouse monitoring?
A: Yes.
Q: I only have Tendonitis. Do I need to worry?
A: Yes. Tendonitis is usually the first step towards Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other more serious RSI problems. Discuss it with your doctor.
Q: Why does the software track mouse and keyboard activity separately?
A: Because they stress different parts of the hand and wrist. In fact, switching between periods of mouse activity and keyboard activity is not a repetitive stress pattern.
Q: Is the software customizable?
A: Yes, many aspects of the ErgoSuite system can and are tailored to our individual customers' needs. From branding and logos to proprietary ergonomic content. SmartErgo can help you in developing a system specific to your needs.
Q: What if I don't use a standard keyboard. Will the software work?
A: Yes, as long as it is a Windows compliant keyboard.
Q: What platforms are supported?
A: ErgoSuite supports Windows XP, Vista and Windows7.
Q: What about DOS programs?
A: Keystrokes entered into DOS programs are counted under Windows NT/2000/ME/XP
Q: Are Macintosh and UNIX versions coming?
A: Yes.
Q: Is it true that the software was co-written by a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome sufferer?
A: Yes. In fact his CTS inspired the program.
Q: Do hunt-and-peck typists get RSI?
A: Yes. Studies have shown that although hunt-and-peck typists use only their strongest fingers, they frequently develop repetitive stress problems
Q: Can more than 1 person use the software if two people share a computer?
A: Yes, as long as both people have a valid license and are entered into the user database.
Q: When I first install what should my settings be?
A: Almost all clients start with the default settings which are based on best practices and NIOSH recommendations.
Q: What happens if I get a new computer what should I do?
A: Most clients use the products throughout their organizations so your new computer should already have ErgoSuite. If not, call your manager or IT group.
Q: Can I select more than one exercise at a time?
A: A single exercise is offered to start which should occupy the brief microbreak suggested. After that, the user can select any number of additional exercises based on body part, with the click of the mouse.
Q: My doctor says I should not do certain exercises. What should I do?
A: Any of the exercises can easily be removed from display.
Q: (A Safety Manager) Can I eliminate certain exercises from coming up?
A: See last question's answer.
Q: How often will the exercises be replaced?
A: Several sets of exercises exist and more are planned for the future.
Q: How do the unique algorithms work, is it a keystroke counter?
SmartErgo's solution stands alone as the only solution where rest is measured against work in real time - making it the only 3rd generation software technology on the market today.
Q: What is the exact nature of your software, is it an automatic pop up window that is timed to go off every so often?
A: See prior question and answer.
Q: What type of training does your software provide?
A: ErgoSuite provides the only proven and known methodology for training people how to pace themselves on the computer. This results in a long term behavior modification that users take with them for life. This along with customizable reference material and web based learning modules reinforces and educates at the same time
Q: How do I perform worksite evaluations with ErgoSuite software?
A: Tools are available for performing worksite self-assessments with ErgoSuite utilizing the RULA method.