User characteristics and performance with automated mobile phone systems

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of individual differences (such as gender and attitude towards mobile phone use in public places) on the usability of a speech-activated mobile city guide service in various context of use (e.g. cafe, train). A Wizard of Oz methodology was used to provide the service functionality for the mobile city guide service. Participants in the study completed specific tasks over a six-week period in public and private locations. The results highlight the importance of considering the effects of individual differences on the context of use in system design and evaluation