Effects of target location and display position on touch performance of desktop touchscreen interface

Abstract

Finger touch interface has been less popular for desktop touchscreens than for mobile IT devices, and it could be attributable to difficulties in reaching and conducting touch gestures comfortably and accurately. In the current study, performance variation of tap gesture by target location and display position was quantitatively evaluated to generate empirical data that can be used to determine proper target location and display position for improving usability of desktop touchscreen interface. Twenty one participants in three handedness groups participated in a laboratory experiment. Touch error, time to complete a single tap gesture, and a hand of choice for tap gesture were measured while conducting repetitive tap gestures on fifteen distributed targets in two positions (upright, near flat) of a 23″ touchscreen display. Results found significant differences (p<0.05) in the performance measures and hand preference between target locations. Greater touch error and shorter completion time were observed from targets on the lower area of the display. To improve the usability of desktop touchscreen, it is recommended to place targets in lower areas with larger sensing area or target size. It is also recommended to determine proper target location and size depending on user&apos;s individual handedness.