Interactive Prototype Interim (Low-Fidelity)

Low Fidelity Prototype

Link to prototype: Low-Fidelity Prototype (Figma)

Interim Prototype Walkthrough: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rLFMKWUBbfqKwgXA9gK8iCm4-IhkIUcK/view?usp=sharing

Low Fidelity Prototype Evaluation Methods

Two evaluation methods were chosen and undertaken in order to gain insights and feedback into the design in order to make improvements. The two evaluation methods chosen for the low-fidelity prototype were: A TAM Survey (Technology Acceptance Model), and A Design Walkthrough. TAM is used to determine the usability and level of acceptance for the technology, design walkthrough is a qualitative evaluation method that focuses on the usability of a technology design.

TAM Results

https://github.com/adrienerice/The_Chosen_Ones/blob/household_energy_consumption/TAM-Survey-Evaluation-Results.xlsx (Tam Results)

TAM Insights

Overall, the acceptance of the technology was very high, with most questions scoring a 3 or higher, particularly for the navigation and ease of use of the application, which majority of users rated very highly. Some aspects where the prototype fell down on was using the technology on a regular basis, as well as the desirability of using the technology in their home, and becoming more skillful in conserving energy through the use of the technology.

Design Walkthrough Results

https://github.com/adrienerice/The_Chosen_Ones/blob/household_energy_consumption/DECO3500-Design-Walkthrough-Evaluation_QandA.docx (Design Walkthrough Results)

Design Walkthrough Insights and Future Directions

• All tasks were easy to undertake. This indicates that the overall layout and design, and feedback of the prototype is clear, understandable and not too overly complex for new users.
• Labelling menu tabs for more clarity, as the icons to some users may not be as conspicuous
• Un-intuitive nature of the menu button, the tabs should all be immediately available.
• Design of ideas expanssion arrow should be larger and easier to identify/click on.
• Varying share house member schedules could make it difficult to collaborate
• All participants recommended including ideas surrounding lighting and TV use
• Individual member energy use could be monitored as well, this would make members feel more obligated to conserve energy if other household members are able to identify who is using more energy and hold them to account. However, often you don’t know who is using the appliance, these scenarios make it difficult to pin responsibility on individual share house members, especially if the appliance is being used communally.

References

Lauer, M., Judith, M. (2014). Utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) For Predicting Usage and Adoption of an iBook in Online Nursing Courses. Holy Family University. https://sigma.nursingrepository.org/bitstream/handle/10755/335648/1_Yoho_M_p64333_1.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

Goel, T. (2009). An Effective Design Walkthrough: A Step Towards Delivering the Best Design. projectsmart. https://www.projectsmart.co.uk/an-effective-design-walkthrough-a-step-towards-delivering-the-best-design.php

Interaction Design Foundation. (2021). How to Conduct a Cognitive Walkthrough. Interaction Design Foundation. https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/article/how-to-conduct-a-cognitive-walkthrough