Development of a Comprehensive Usability Testing and Analysis Framework for the Physical Interface Between Product and User

Abstract

Objective: The present study developed a comprehensive usability testing and analysis framework based on a physical interface model of product and user and applied the proposed framework to usability testing of canister-type vacuum cleaner. Background: The development of a user-centered product design is important to satisfy customers who want to use the product with ease of use and to keep the manufacturer competitive in the market. Method: The proposed testing and analysis framework consists of (1) characterization of physical product-user interface, (2) preparation and administration of usability testing questionnaire, and (3) analysis and interpretation of usability testing results. A usability evaluation of five vacuum cleaners was planned and administered based on the proposed framework and its analysis produced detailed and overall usability testing results for various aspects such as tasks, usability criteria, and design components. Results: The testing results were further utilized to identify usability problems and preferred design features of the vacuum cleaners. Conclusion: The proposed usability testing and analysis framework was found effective to identify preferred features and problems of a product design in a systematic, holistic manner. Application: The proposed framework can be of effective use for practitioners of product design and development to obtain comprehensive, quantitative usability testing information in a systematic manner.