Enhanced accessibility: An elevator with an interactive media surface

Abstract

This exploratory research paper discusses the importance of experiential qualities in products that have accessible and assistive uses. The focus is on products that may have an ambiguous user experience. Concepts of multisensory user experience and accessibility are presented as an introduction to the topic. The paper builds on the findings of a preliminary user study that was conducted in a joint multinational and cross-industrial project that was externally funded. In the study, users' experiences of an accessible means of transport, an elevator prototype with an interactive media surface, were explored. The study comprised a thinking aloud task and a design game. The demonstrated colours, lights and their movements created various kinds of associations among the participating users. The participants also ideated about the product's alternative applications, some of which concerned accessibility, while others extended beyond it. The findings show that adding experiential product qualities enhances the user experience in terms of various associations and applications that extend beyond accessibility and the original use.