Consumer perceptions and concerns regarding aesthetic attributes of textile-based assistive devices: a qualitative analysis of online retail product reviews

Author:

Nartker Kate,Annett-Hitchcock Kate,Hoque S.M. Azizul

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper was to examine consumer perceptions of aesthetic attributes of textile-based assistive devices (ADs) and the language used by consumers to express those perceptions and concerns. Previous investigations of user feedback for ADs have largely focused on functional attributes rather than aesthetics. Design/methodology/approach An interpretivist research philosophy was selected to investigate the meaning behind consumer perceptions and to understand their viewpoints on the aesthetic dimensions of ADs. Using product reviews for two ADs sold on Amazon.com as data, the researchers conducted qualitative data analysis through coding and interpretation of meanings behind reviews to determine consumers’ perceptions related to their ADs. Findings The authors identified consumer concerns linking to aesthetics evidenced as a multisensory integration of visual, tactile and olfactory cues. Consumer-preferred language used to address aesthetic preferences was found to supplement the literature. Aesthetic considerations were found to be impactful on avoiding stigma and encouraging or discouraging continued use of the devices. Practical implications Findings may contribute to the development of textile-based ADs with improved aesthetics to enhance user experiences. New ways of using consumer language to interpret user needs may assist in future research and design practice for consumer products. Originality/value The use of consumer product reviews as a rich source of user data is discussed in this paper. As previous research on assistive technology has largely focused on functionality, results of this analysis offer insight into consumers’ aesthetic judgments related to ADs and bring a sensory perspective to the research area.

Publisher

Emerald

Subject

Management of Technology and Innovation,Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering,Materials Science (miscellaneous),Business and International Management

Reference47 articles.

1. Amazon.com (2021a), “NEENCA professional knee brace: sports and outdoors”, available at: www.amazon.com/NEENCA-Compression-Stabilizers-Meniscus-Arthritis/dp/B0817GQVM1/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 (accessed 13 December 2021).

2. Amazon.com (2021b), “Duerer arthritis compression gloves: health and household”, available at: www.amazon.com/Duerer-Men-Compression-Relief-RSI-Rheumatoid-Osteoarthritis/dp/B077BSDWJZ/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8&th=1 (accessed 13 December 2021).

3. That’s for old so and so’s!’: does identity influence older adults’ technology adoption decisions?;Ageing and Society,2019

4. Design and fabrication of prosthetic and orthotic product by 3D printing,2020

5. Does my stigma look big in this? Considering acceptability and desirability in the inclusive design of technology products,2007

Cited by 2 articles. 订阅此论文施引文献 订阅此论文施引文献,注册后可以免费订阅5篇论文的施引文献,订阅后可以查看论文全部施引文献

同舟云学术

1.学者识别学者识别

2.学术分析学术分析

3.人才评估人才评估

"同舟云学术"是以全球学者为主线,采集、加工和组织学术论文而形成的新型学术文献查询和分析系统,可以对全球学者进行文献检索和人才价值评估。用户可以通过关注某些学科领域的顶尖人物而持续追踪该领域的学科进展和研究前沿。经过近期的数据扩容,当前同舟云学术共收录了国内外主流学术期刊6万余种,收集的期刊论文及会议论文总量共计约1.5亿篇,并以每天添加12000余篇中外论文的速度递增。我们也可以为用户提供个性化、定制化的学者数据。欢迎来电咨询!咨询电话:010-8811{复制后删除}0370

www.globalauthorid.com

TOP

Copyright © 2019-2024 北京同舟云网络信息技术有限公司
京公网安备11010802033243号  京ICP备18003416号-3