Got Info? Examining the Consequences of Inaccurate Information Systems

It is a desirable goal to balance information given to the user with the potential adverse effects on cognitive processing and perception of information systems. In this experiment, the authors investigated the minimum level of information accuracy necessary in an in-car information system to elicit positive behavioral and attitudinal responses from the driver. There were 60 participants, and each drove in a simulator for 25 minutes; driving performance data was automatically collected, and drivers later completed questionnaires for attitudinal data. Participants were divided into three groups of drivers: a group driving with a 100% accurate system, another driving with a 70% accurate system, and one group driving without an in-car system. There was a definite positive effect on driving performance with the in-car system, and results show that decreasing the accuracy of the system decreases both the driving performance and the trust of the in-car system. Data also indicates that female drivers have a higher tolerance of inaccuracies in an in-car system; design implications are discussed.