Digital TV Urged To Be More User Friendly

New research unveiled at the Easy TV Event, organised by the ITC in association with the Consumers Association and the Design Council, has recommended a more user-centred approach to the design of digital television.

The Easy TV Event, which is part of an ongoing initiative to promote the need for easier to use digital television equipment, based its recommendations on a survey of over 1,300 members of the public. From the research, Easy TV distinguished three distinct categories of opinions regarding digital television.

The survey found that over 50% of consumers are dissatified with digital television technology in its present form. Michelle Childs, head of policy research at the Consumers Association, commented: “This new research demonstrates the importance of understanding consumer attitudes and experiences of digital television. It is vital to recognise that consumers have a variety of needs and problems with digital television. This is not just another take it or leave it technology, and the governments switchover policy makes these issues all the more urgent. Making digital television easier will benefit us all.”

Users across all demographic groups recommended a number of measures to help facilitate easier use of digital television, such as fewer buttons on remote controls and simpler user manuals.

Patricia Hodgson, chief executive of ITC, commented: “We hope that Easy TV 2002 will encourage all those involved in designing and producing digital television equipment to think about creating products for consumers that focus on their needs and redress the balance between usability and functionality.”

ITC: 0207 306 7743 www.itc.org.uk

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