Evaluation of satisfaction with geospatial assistive technology (ESGAT): a methodological and usability study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Geospatial Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Manual wheelchair users face significant challenges navigating urban environments, particularly at hazardous points like road crossings and thresholds.
• Geospatial assistive technology (GAT) offers potential solutions for route planning and navigation assistance for individuals with reduced mobility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a satisfaction questionnaire for GAT in English and French.
• To evaluate the satisfaction, efficacy, and efficiency of a specific GAT (Google Maps Pedestrian routeing tool) among manual wheelchair users in a dense urban setting.

Main Methods:

• A methodological study involving questionnaire development and validation by experts and field-testing with manual wheelchair users.
• Concurrent validation of English and French versions of the satisfaction questionnaire.
• Assessment of GAT usability and performance through filmed trials and post-observation analysis.

Main Results:

• The developed questionnaire (ESGAT) was found to be feasible and practicable.
• Manual wheelchair users reported moderate satisfaction (3.9/5) with the GAT, highlighting issues with navigation assistance, hands-free function, and security.
• The GAT was effective in destination completion (87.5%) but inefficient, with many users requiring assistance (37.5%).

Conclusions:

• The validated ESGAT questionnaire provides a tool for assessing manual wheelchair user satisfaction with GAT.
• Key areas for GAT improvement include navigation assistance, hands-free operation, and security features.
• Field testing is essential to ensure GAT effectiveness in identifying and mitigating real-world urban obstacles for wheelchair users.