Abstract
An Extended User Evaluation (EUE) was completed to determine if a handheld device aided Marines in the performance of their primary occupational duties while deployed in an operational environment. The focus of the evaluation was to gather usability insights, under operational conditions, that would translate into generalized design criteria for future mobile devices. Marines were provided with iPod touches, or Marine Pods (MPods), with preconfigured sets of information and tools to be used during in-theater operations. The evaluation spanned a seven-month deployment and consisted of monthly surveys. A majority of Marines found the MPod to be a useful resource and tool as a primary source of information during field operations and a secondary source of information in shop. Two user categories were identified: informational and general. Informational users employed the MPods primarily for access to technical publications to support maintenance operations. General users primarily employed the MPods for entertainment, note taking, and physical training.
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