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Growth in service industries and increasing automation in manufacturing industries is gradually influencing the role of ergonomics. The purpose of this paper is to identify some of the new and developing areas which need an ergonomist's attention and to define and discuss specific problems within these areas.

This paper argues in favor of a human-centered (anthropocentric) approach to modern manufacturing. The bases for these arguments are: (a) worker deskilling and creativity issues, (b) economics, and (c) unresolved problems in automation, such as software reliance and costs. Detailed arguments are avoided owing to space limitations. Finally, some issues confronting human-centered manufacturing are raised.