Speech-driven environmental control systems – a qualitative analysis of users' perceptions

Abstract

Purpose: To explore users' experiences and perceptions of speech driven environmental control systems as part of a larger project aiming to develop a new speech driven environmental control system. The motivation for this part of the project was to add to the evidence base for the use of speech driven environmental control systems and to determine the key design specifications for a new speech driven system from a user's perspective.Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve users of speech driven environmental control systems from around the UK. These interviews were transcribed and analysed using a qualitative method based on framework analysis. Results:Reliability is the main influence on the use of speech driven environmental control systems. All the participants gave examples of occasions when their speech driven system was unreliable; in some instances this unreliability was reported as not being a problem (e.g. for changing television channels) however it was perceived as a problem for more safety critical functions (e.g. opening a door). Reliability was cited by participants as the reason for using a switch operated system as back up. Benefits of speech driven systems focussed on: speech operation enabling access when other -3 -methods were not possible; quicker operation and better aesthetic considerations. Overall there was a perception of increased independence from the use of speech driven environmental control. Conclusions:In general speech was considered a useful method of operating environmental controls by the participants interviewed however their perceptions regarding reliability often influenced their decision to have backup or alternative systems for certain functions.

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