A case study in an automotive assembly line: Exploring the design framework for manufacturing gamification

Abstract

Industrial revolution which is represented by specialization, standardization, and simplification significantly improves productivity, however it makes tasks in production line more simple and repetitive. This monotonous work environment affects most factory workers to be suffered from lack of motivation and boredom, so consequently makes workers to perceive their job unsatisfied and meaningless. We believe that gamification approach can make this tedious workplace more playful and motivating. In this context, a case study was conducted for a bolt-tightening task in the automotive assembly line. Especially, we explored our five-step design framework which can be useful as a basic procedure for the manufacturing gamification: (1) target system analysis; (2) goal and constraints identification; (3) concept generation; (4) concept evaluation; and (5) scenario development. Based on this design framework, a gamified interface for a bolt-tightening task was developed. The effectiveness of gamified interface was evaluated by lab-based experiment with semi-structured interview, and lessons learnt and related design suggestions are also dealt with.