Upload an essay that identifies 2 consumer products that you have used, either currently or in the past, one that has frustrated you and/or has been a hassle to use, and another that you enjoyed using. They can be virtually any products — either ones that you have owned, ones that a friend or family member have owned, products you have used in a job setting, or ones located in a public setting. It would be best if the products both served a similar purpose (e.g. can opener vs. can opener, not can opener vs. iPhone). Then, write a brief evaluation of each product in terms of Vanderheiden and Vanderheiden’s accessible design guidelines. Be objective. List good aspects of the product you didn’t like and list bad aspects of the product you like. Use the following format and headings for each:
Note: Write only one or two sentences to satisfy each of the following project requirements.
I. Introduction: A paragraph describing the product, how and in what situation it would be used, and any socio-cultural meanings associated with the product.
II. Performance and Expectations: Describe your performance using the product. Did it meet, exceed, or fall short of expectations? Did it meet expectations in spite of aggravation and hassle, or fall short despite its enjoyable aspects? Develop a short list of ways your performance was affected, either positively or negatively.
III. Product Analysis: Analyze the product in terms of Vanderheiden and Vanderheiden’s 5 categories of consideration. Use the format presented in their guidelines, which are described on pp. 23-77 of the reading:
1. Output/Displays
2. Input/Controls
3. Manipulations
4. Documentation
5. Safety
For each of the 5 guideline areas, provide a specific example of a feature that address the guidelines (i.e. features that represent ‘good’ design), as well as features that do not address their guidelines (i.e. features that represent poor design).
IV. Suggestions for Improvement: For each of the poor design features that you identify, provide suggestions for design that will rectify the problems you described.
Please limit your assignment to 500 words maximum and upload your assignment as a PDF or Word document. See our Assignment Guidelines for grading criteria and tips.
Recommended: Upload your assignment within the final week of this course.