Understanding the Habits of eReaders
This upfront user research project was an examination of the North American e-reading market and the use of multiple types of devices (switching between an eReader, smartphone, and laptop) to acquire and access eBooks.
Objective
Understanding users' reading patterns, needs, behaviors, and interactions with software & hardware
Methods
Self-assessments, daily journaling, interviews and observations
Deliverables
User personas, presentation of user research as well as recommendations for further inquiry, UX recommendations to improve the software
Understanding Users
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eReader users are:
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Gadget lovers who want a one-stop-shop for entertainment.
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Like the convenience of its light weight and portability.
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People who want a dedicated eReader to encourage them to disengage from the rest of technology.
Participants described their reading time as a way to:
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Escape and be alone
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Fill down-time
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Be out and “social” when they are alone (eg. going to a public place to read)
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Facilitate other activities (eg. acquiring skills or knowledge)
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Privacy:
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Some participants felt that looking through somebody else’s eReader was too personal; they considered it to be equivalent to looking through someone’s wallet.
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However, the majority of participants indicated that the contents of their eReaders is an extension of individual personality and no different at glancing at someone’s bookshelves.
Daily Digital Media Usage
Participants were asked to chart their digital media behavior for a week. They were asked to note the following information:
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which of their electronic devices they used at which point of the day
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where the devices were used
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for what purpose(s) the devices were used
A user who reads consistently before bedtime.
Different weekend vs. weekday behavior (inner 2 rings are Sat/Sun)
Some had a more regular schedule while others had no two days alike
eReading: Which device, when?
Participants reported reading eBooks on an alternate device under the following circumstances:
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When they had a moment to read and it was the only device available.
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When they were trying to read discretely.
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When their arms were tired.
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When they were using the e-document as a reference (ex. recipes, knitting pattern.
Bedtime Reading Opportunities
This infographic looks at the consolidated usage of all the participants though the week.
As the most concentrated time of reading occurs during “bedtime,” other issues surrounding bedtime ritual reading that warrant future exploration include:
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Lighting challenges
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Reading out loud to others
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Physical interaction with the device (reclining positions, awkward wrist postures, etc.)
What needs that occur during this specific time are not being met?
What other physical forms could an eReader take to enhance this experience or environment?
Peak e-reading time appears to be 9:30pm-12am, regardless of the day of the week.
Opportunity: Transition points
Common life transitions are likely times for people to switch to e-reading. Examples of some transition points are provided below:
eReader Personas
Research patterns led us to develop personas outlining the different behaviors, preferences, and attributes of five distinct user types.
