Assessing university police officers’ uniforms and wearing experiences

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to suggest opportunities for enhancing the police uniform design with consideration to the emotional and physical satisfaction of the wearers, by assessing the wearing experience. Design/methodology/approach University police officers at a University in the Midwestern region of the USA were surveyed to examine both psychological and emotional aspects including performance, comfort, professionalism and empowerment, as well as their satisfaction levels with fit, fabrics, aesthetics and functionality. Findings The study found that the wearing experience was poor, and not surprisingly, fabric satisfaction ranked the lowest of all factors. In regard to color, results showed that the uniforms should be in colors that are suitable to the university context, which in this case the wearers preferred the University athletic colors of black and red. It is easier to consider these colors, as they are a part of their organization and also enable the police to stand apart from municipal police, contrary to previous research demonstrating dark colors have negative connotations. Findings suggest that the university police uniform should have an athletic style with a regular fit, using specific performance fabrics that allow for stretch and breathability. Originality/value This study assesses the police uniform design and wearing experience and suggests design details to enhance how well officers physically perform in their role and also to inspire them to feel proud of their job and organization.

Exploring the relationship between uniform and perceived employee happiness and productivity

“…The needs of the employee may not always be at the centre of the design process. Whilst a small number of studies have elicited employee views to inform future design (Mok and Xie, 2021; Eom and Lee, 2020; Brandewie et al , 2021), these have tended to focus on specific employee groups through interview studies. Uniform providers and employing organisations are likely to consider wearers views, needs and requirements, but the outcomes are not widely available to inform design.…”

“…Moving beyond comfort and functional requirements, research in Finland has explored work identity and well-being amongst those wearing uniform within a restaurant setting (van der Laan, 2016). Brandewie et al (2021) have focused on police uniform design in the USA identifying opportunities for enhancing the design by examining psychological and emotional aspects including performance, comfort, professionalism and empowerment as well as satisfaction levels with fit, fabrics, aesthetics and functionality. These studies vary in their approach but are pre-dominantly qualitative, and focus on small samples, and/or specific employee groups.…”