Evaluating non-interactive domestic situated SMS messaging

ABSTRACT

We present our evaluation of our SMS-to-photo-frame messaging system in diverse households. We explored whether low-cost, non-interactive ambient displays were useful when applied to domestic messaging. We performed an ethnographic study with two different types of households, during which we analysed their usage of the system and conducted a series of interviews. We found that all households used the system to some degree, but that the social context and communication styles were distinctly different between households comprised of families and those with fictive kin. This highlights the importance of considering the household structure when designing domestic technology. Additionally, our preliminary study explored the minimum requirements for a useful messaging appliance for the home, particularly with respect to interactivity.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  J. Computer Applications
  J.7 COMPUTERS IN OTHER SYSTEMS
      Subjects: Consumer products

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Evaluation/methodology

General Terms:
Human Factors

Keywords:
communication, digital photo frame, domestic messaging, ethnographic evaluation study, mobile phone, situated display, ubiquitous computing