"Variability of User Evaluations Based on Design Representation"
A critical component in the development of new products is the inclusion of input from future users.  This input is invaluable in defining and understanding the technical/functional needs that the product must fulfill.  It also serves as a guide to other important attributes such as usability, satisfaction or acceptability.  Though almost all product development methodologies call for user input and utilize it in various ways within the design process, the accuracy of this input to guide design decisions is not well defined.  This presentation will share the results of an investigation into the accuracy of user input when it is provided based on different representations of a design (such as sketches, renderings or models) that are commonly available at various stages of the design process.  A better understanding of this input will allow designers base design decisions on the components of it that are most likely to accurately represent users’ opinion of a finished product.