CMHR Kiosk and Keypad Gap Analysis

List of Identified Gaps

Physical Interaction with Kiosk

  • non-adjustable kiosk height will limit access of many users of different heights and in differently-sized wheelchairs
  • inability to connect to kiosk with remote, personal device means that individual user's pre-set, personal preferences are unexploited
    • users will need to a) physically access kiosk in order to set preferences and b) repeat preference-setting routine at every kiosk
    • limits ability to adapt to individual's needs (a key component of accessibility)
  • headphone requirement for listening to audio describe (vs. local speakers) means that user will have to plug in headset at every kiosk

Physical Interaction with Keypad

  • keypad may be difficult for users with limited mobility to comfortably reach
  • keypad requires a level of manual dexterity which some users with disabilities do not have
  • keypad as sole alternative to touch-screeen (vs. personal device or other solution) may limit overall enjoyment/experience of exhibit
  • fixed, right-handed keypad limits use by left-handed users and those who cannot physically reach the kiosk
  • keypad is easy to locate but due to immediate prominence may be confused for sole kiosk interaction
  • use of keypad may be tiresome for extended periods; increasing wrist-rest area may provide one solution
  • vertically-oriented keypads on wall-kiosks are awkward to use and will be tiresome for extended periods of use
  • fixed keypad button controls limit the level of interactivity with changing kiosk content (eg. content requiring up and down controls in addition to right and left)

Touch-screen Interface

  • on-screen interactables for different levels of navigation are often presented in the same row (e.g. language selection, timeline, view toggles and next/previous buttons) – separating these levels into functional rows will simplify interaction
  • nuanced audio description would enrich user experience e.g. for map/globe visual a whirling sound upon swiping, splashing over water bodies, voice over countries
  • use of colour-coding as sole identifier for different classes/levels of information will limit cognition of those who are colour-blind; include also a variety of shapes
  • need an alternate to touch-screen interaction for See Change Make Change tablets
gesture diptych
  • tactile floor markings to indicate where to stand, audio instructions, alternatives for blind users, alternative for users with limited mobility would improve the interaction here
    • possible solution: mobile touchscreen as an alternative for some users, they would still get the experience of flipping through a book through swiping gestures
group table
  • keypad is distant from kiosk content and appears to limit users to only the side content – provide a keypad at each individual station
debate table
  • provide alternative to touch screen or audio instructions indicating which side of the screen is yes, and which side is no

Graphic Standard

  • ability to set preferences on the touch-screen (font size, contrast, brightness, )
    • these could be portable preferences (on a token or other hand-held device)
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