The value of computer-based product representations in co-designing with older users

Computer-based representations of products offer potential time and cost savings in the early design stages of new product development. As technology progresses they offer considerable scope for co-designing, giving users a voice early in the design process. However, few studies address how users relate to such models. A laboratory-based study was conducted with 13 older users (six men and seven women) to investigate their understanding of model formats used at an early stage of prototyping (i.e. on-screen digital images and physical rapid prototyped (RP) models). The results indicate that users were able to identify the basic purpose or function of a familiar product from the 2D line drawings. However, perceptions of size, weight and materials were poor, particularly with a less familiar product. Essentially, finished RP models and 3D colour computer-aided design images were found to communicate products more completely to users and therefore useful for eliciting feedback. Unfinished models were found to...