Public space systems: designing for privacy?

  • Authors:
  • Linda Little;Pam Briggs;Lynne Coventry

  • Affiliations:
  • PACT Laboratory, Division of Psychology, School of Psychology & Sports Science, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK;PACT Laboratory, Division of Psychology, School of Psychology & Sports Science, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK;NCR Financial Solutions Ltd., Dundee, UK

  • Venue:
  • International Journal of Human-Computer Studies - Special isssue: HCI research in privacy and security is critical now
  • Year:
  • 2005

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Abstract

Technological systems for use in public places need to be designed so people can use them efficiently, effectively, safely and with satisfaction. A component factor in satisfaction is perceived privacy. Current guidelines aimed at improving accessibility may impact users perceptions of privacy. The aim of this study was to explore whether different screen sizes affect users' perceptions of privacy. Also, if partitioning around screens influences privacy perceptions. An opportunity sample of 60 participants took part in the study. The results that revealed 12" screens were perceived as more private by users than 15 and 17" screens. Adding privacy partitions improved user's perceptions of privacy on the 12 and 15" screens but not on the 17". These findings provide evidence that slight changes in the physical design of systems can increase users' perceived levels of privacy and therefore satisfaction.