Ruggedized handheld device input effectiveness by generation: A time and error study

• Time and error rates examined on industrial rugged devices for keypad and touch.
• Participants consist of Gamer and Baby Boomer aged workers in industry.
• All workers are faster on touchscreen only input than with physical keys.
• Permanent error rate increase was noted by Gamers on touch only devices.
• Shift from physical keys to touchscreen recommended for rugged devices in industry.

The objective of this study is to determine whether ruggedized handheld scanning devices used for industrial purposes should contain one of the most prominent features provided on commercial smart devices: data entry via touchscreen as opposed to a physical keypad. Due to harsh environments, physical keys have been the preferred means of input for rugged handhelds. Advancement in touchscreen technology along with technology expectations brought about by the workforce demographic shift are influencing a notable shift to touch-only input for rugged equipment. Hypotheses expect there to be a difference in usability by worker generation and so 20 Gamers (Millennials) and 20 Baby Boomers performed manual data entry on ruggedized handhelds: one with physical keys and one touchscreen only. All participants took 19% less time on touchscreen than physical keys. Gamers were 31% faster than Boomers on physical keyed devices and 28% faster on touchscreen only. There was no significant difference in errors entered for either device by either age group; however, an 83% increase in permanent errors by Gamers on touchscreen was noted. Transitioning to a rugged device with touch-only input is recommended for industry as it could offer an increase in work productivity. This study presents timely insight into a new tool option for industrial workers.Relevance to industryThis research describes the paradigm shift in the ruggedized handheld device market from physical keys to touchscreen only input and identifies real time productivity savings and error risks that can be expected by different generations of workers in the industrial workforce.