A method to facilitate affordance perception and actualization for improving the usability of smart plugs

Abstract

Smart plugs are attracting attention as smart devices that enable energy savings by providing functions such as standby power cut-off, energy usage monitoring, and remote power control. The majority of research on smart plugs has applied a technology-focused approach to improve efficiency and performance, but a user-centered approach is also required. Regardless of the method used to apply advanced technologies, energy savings cannot be expected if users are reluctant to use smart plugs owing to difficulties in use. Therefore, it is essential to improve the usability of smart plugs through the application of user-friendly design to promote energy-saving behaviors. This study aims to suggest methods to improve the usability by facilitating affordance perception and actualization of smart plugs. To achieve this, we first examined the concept of affordance and presented the role of informational and physical elements in perceiving and actualizing affordances. Thereafter, we constructed a checklist for facilitating affordance perception and actualization of smart plugs after reviewing several guidelines and design principles for usability improvement. Subsequently, we conducted in-depth interviews with 26 smart plug users to explore user experience (UX) for the checklist items. Finally, based on the interview results, we suggested a design direction for smart plugs that facilitates the perception and actualization of affordances.