The Effects of Touch Screen Technology on the Usability of E-Reading Devices
Eva Siegenthaler, Yves Bochud, Pascal Wurtz, Laura Schmid, and Per Bergamin
Journal of Usability Studies, Volume 7, Issue 3, May 2012, pp. 94 - 104
Abstract
Although reading is the main function of electronic reading devices (e-readers), previous studies demonstrated that a critical factor for perceived legibility is the usability of the device. If users have problems with the handling of a device, they will not like using the device for reading. Therefore, easy handling is a critical factor for a user’s reading experience. One important device feature seems to be a touch screen. A touch screen tends to be very intuitive and saves space as no keyboard or mouse is required, which also tends to make for easier hand-eye coordination than a mouse or keyboard. This study investigated the effect of touch screen technology on the usability of electronic reading devices. Three different types of devices were compared: two e-readers with e-ink display (the Sony PRS 600 with a touch screen and the Sony PRS 505 without a touch screen) and one tablet PC with a backlit LCD (Apple iPad with a multi-touch screen). Participants completed different use case scenarios for each device. Participants then completed a questionnaire that asked them to rate the usability of the navigation, design, handiness, and handling of each device. The results show that e-reading devices with touch screens correlate with better navigation ratings. Participants rated the navigation significantly better for the devices with a touch screen compared to a device without a touch screen. Overall results suggest that a touch screen allows for an easier and more intuitive interaction. Nonetheless, participants were not able to solve all tasks without problems, and significant differences were found between the devices. In conclusion there is still room for improvement, for the devices tested, in regards to usability aspects.
Practitioner’s Take Away
For UX-professionals, consider the following:
- Navigational structure should be adapted to the type of user interface (touch, multi-touch, without touch).
- Users past experience with touch screens should be considered.
- When evaluating input technologies with short tasks, setting a time limit for each task ensures that participants get to attempt all of the tasks.
- Alternative technologies, such as touch vs. physical buttons, can be evaluated for usability even when newer models of the products may soon be released.
For consumers who want to buy an e-reading device, consider the following:
- Think about the purpose and context (e.g., work, education, etc.) for which you want to use an e-reader. Choose the e-reader model depending on the required functions.
- Before you buy an e-reader, test it and check whether you can handle the device.
- Touch screen technology tends to allow for easier and more intuitive interactions. There is a tendency that a more sensitive touch screen may enhance navigation.
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The Effects of Touch Screen Technology on the Usability of E-Reading Devices