The UX Construct – Does the Usage Context Influence the Outcome of User Experience Evaluations?

Abstract

How are different measures of user experience (UX) related to each other? And does it differ if a technological device is used for work or leisure with regard to UX? In the present study, the influence of context factors (i.e. usage domain) on the outcomes of UX tests is examined. Using a 2 × 2 experimental design, in addition to usage domain (work vs. leisure), system usability was manipulated (normal vs. delayed response time). Sixty participants completed various tasks with a mobile internet application. Performance indicators and subjective indicators of UX were recorded (e.g. emotion, perceived usability, and task load). Interestingly, results indicated little evidence for an influence of usage context on UX. System usability showed the expected effects on performance and on user emotion, whereas no influence on perceived usability was observed. In addition, the correlations between the different measures of UX were rather low, indicating that it is advisable to assess UX by distinct dimensions. Implications of these results for practice and research are discussed.