The effect of a feedback signal in a computer mouse on hovering behaviour, productivity, comfort and usability in a field study

article
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a tactile feedback signal on hovering behaviour, productivity, usability and comfort after 1 week of using an experimental mouse. In a randomized controlled trial, a regular computer mouse was compared to a new developed mouse with a tactile, vibrating feedback signal to prevent unnecessary hovering above the computer mouse. According to this study, participants do decrease their hovering behaviour when using a mouse with tactile feedback. Furthermore, the mouse with tactile feedback did not influence productivity. Usability was rated somewhat mixed. The use of a mouse with a tactile vibrating feedback signal seems promising for preventing neck, shoulder and arm complaints. Further research is needed to study long-term effects on (prevention of) neck, shoulder and arm complaints and development of learning effects.
TNO Identifier
240635
ISSN
00140139
Source
Ergonomics, 51(2), pp. 140-155.
Pages
140-155
Files
To receive the publication files, please send an e-mail request to TNO Repository.