We humans in this world are in a situation where things are getting automated and new gadgets, machinery, and equipment, as well as computer software, are getting stuffed into our immediate environment.

It is not easy for humans to learn new things and handle new equipment. Unless there is a certain pattern and code applied while designing the equipment, it will be very difficult to operate a new machine. So one must take into consideration how the man will operate a vehicle or equipment that he hasn’t seen at all. This is known as "control motion expectancy" and, in ergonomic terms, falls under the chapter of stereotype and compatibility. In this special project, some research was accomplished on this topic, especially regarding material handling equipment. Also in this project, an experiment was carried out to determine the stereotyped reactions of the people controlling material handling equipment (the movements of which are taking place on the rear side of the operator).

It is postulated that, greater the degree of compatibility, the less re-coding must be done to process the information. This in turn results in faster learning, a faster response time, fewer errors, and a reduced mental workload.