Evaluating the human-machine interface to vehicle navigation systems as an example of ubiquitous computing

In-vehicle navigation systems are an example of ubiquitous computing, where the computing facility is embedded in an everyday object (car) for an everyday task (driving). The maturing navigation systems market of the last 10 years has prompted academic and commercial research into the human-machine interface (HMI) for these systems. A significant body of research now exists in this specialized area and a contribution has been made towards guidelines for interface design. This paper presents an overview of evaluation methods used to date (in terms of context of use, techniques, measures and evaluators) and the pros and cons of the different approaches. It ends with a discussion of how the resulting knowledge can assist in the evaluation of other ubiquitous technologies. (C) 2001 Academic Press.