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Subjective perceptual methods for comparing backpacks in the field.
S J Legg1, A Barr A, D I Hedderley
1Centre for Ergonomics, Occupational Safety and Health, Department of Human Resource Management, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
Ergonomics
|May 31, 2003
Summary
Qualitative subjective feedback effectively identified backpack design preferences in field trials, unlike quantitative methods. Initial impressions from simulated
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics and Ergonomics
- Human Factors Engineering
- Sports Science
Background:
- Subjective perceptual methods are valuable in laboratory settings for assessing subtle backpack design differences.
- Previous research has primarily focused on laboratory evaluations, with limited field application of these methods.
- Objective physiological and biomechanical measures can be insufficient for detecting minor design variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of quantitative and qualitative subjective perceptual methods in distinguishing subtle design differences between two backpacks in a controlled field setting.
- To compare initial quantitative subjective impressions from a simulated 'in-shop' trial with post-field trial backpack preferences.
- To identify specific design features influencing user preference.
Main Methods:
- A controlled field trial involving 10 male participants carrying two backpacks, each loaded to 15 kg, on a 1313 m hilly outdoor track.
- Participants engaged in a simulated 'in-shop' trial involving donning, doffing, and walking with the backpacks.
- Post-field trial assessments included qualitative free-format written responses and quantitative ratings on visual analogue or category ratio scales.
Main Results:
- Qualitative feedback successfully identified specific reasons for preference, such as better balance, weight distribution, stability, and comfort.
- Quantitative methods were generally unsuccessful in distinguishing between the two backpacks under the tested field conditions.
- Seven participants preferred backpack A, while three preferred backpack B.
Conclusions:
- Qualitative subjective perceptual methods are more effective than quantitative ones for distinguishing backpack preferences and identifying design features in field conditions with moderate exercise intensity.
- Initial quantitative subjective impressions from a brief 'in-shop' trial can predict overall backpack preference after limited field use.
- Quantitative methods might be effective in field settings if higher exercise intensities are employed, as suggested by prior treadmill-based studies.