Machine usability effects on preferences for hot drinks

Abstract

Research suggests that usability of a machine affects consumers’ preference for the machine. However, there is no research available to explain if evaluation of a product prepared using that machine, is likely to be impacted by the usability of the machine. In a controlled study using three trials, participants prepared hot beverages using two different beverage machines that also differed in their usability. In all three trials, machine usability, participants’ drink selections and evaluations of hot drinks prepared on the machines were measured. Our results indicate that machine usability influences consumers’ preference for the products prepared on these machines.