Identifying key quality features for wearable technology embedded products using the Kano model

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify the major quality features of wearable technology embedded products that have the greatest impact on consumer satisfaction using the Kano model, an organized approach to specify consumer requirements and expectation through a preference classification technique.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative research method, an online survey was conducted with a convenience sample of US consumers aged between 19 years old and over. A total of otal 471 useable data were obtained and used for the data analysis.

Findings

This study identified that the 11 quality features of wearables belong to one-dimensional quality category among the five Kano categories, although the impact of each quality feature's performance on consumer satisfaction varies. The results also showed that the performance level of durability, long battery life, usability, product safety, comfortability and reasonable price has the greatest impact on consumer satisfaction of wearables.

Research limitations/implications

This study has implications for future research by integrating the Kano model with other design and product development related theoretical models when designing, developing and evaluating various wearable products.

Originality/value

This study quantified the key quality features of wearables using the Kano model, which can be a great measurement tool for future researchers to adopt in their studies. The findings of this study help designers, developers and producers of wearables to prioritize the quality features during the product design, development and manufacturing process.

Citation

Salahuddin, M. and Lee, Y.-A. (2021), "Identifying key quality features for wearable technology embedded products using the Kano model", International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, Vol. 33 No. 1, pp. 93-105. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCST-08-2019-0130