Human Factors Design Considerations of Alarm Clocks

Abstract

Advances in technology have allowed computers and peripherals to become more affordable and useable. Technology is also trickling down and being integrated into other consumer products such as those found in the home, such as alarm clocks. Two studies examined the desirability of various features that have or could be incorporated into alarm clocks. in Study 1, 378 people evaluated the importance of various features that have or could be incorporated into alarm clocks. They were also asked to report other features not listed. Study 2 was similar except a larger list of potential features was included. Both studies indicated that there are several features considered more important (e.g., digital face, independent buttons to set hours and minutes, low price) than others (e.g., traditional analog clock face, cassette player). Also, feature importance differed depending on gender and undergraduate/non-student groups. Factor analyses revealed that ergonomic aspects were being considered with respect to feature desirability. Implications for human factors/ergonomics issues are discussed including specific suggestions for alarm clock designs and other electronic consumer products.