The Usability of Time-Setting Functions on Small Electronic Consumer Products: A Test
Roger R. Hall, Stephan Zinser, Peter Keller · International Journal of Cognitive Ergonomics · 1999
Five common time-setting methods of small electronic consumer products (e.g., video cassette recorders or clock radios) were examined. The aim of the study was to test whether an additional AM/PM button would provide shortcuts for the process of setting the time and whether a standard numeric patch was the most effective way to set a clock. Furthermore, the study was intended to gather data leading to improvements in the interfaces of domestic appliances. Evaluation of usability was achieved by a comparative usability test using a touchscreen monitor. Information about users' subjective impressions was gathered via a questionnaire. The numeric patch was the superior method of setting the time. The introduced AM/PM button provided valuable shortcuts and was widely accepted by participants. Furthermore, several shortcomings of the tested time-setting mechanisms were discovered, and suggestions for the improvement of the products were made.