ABSTRACT
A product should give users control over the pace at which they perform tasks. When performing a task, people tend to prefer when they can set the pace, rather than having to match a pace set by a product. Imposing a specific pace is problematic because different people naturally perform tasks at different speeds. A simple example of an artificially-paced task is getting on an elevator. When the bell rings, the elevator door opens, and there is a limited amount of time to step into it before the door closes again. Another example of an artificially-paced task is mowing the grass with a single speed, self-propelled mower. Such a mower relieves the user of having to push, but requires the user to match its motor-driven pace. Letting users pace themselves enables them to perceive a situation, consider alternative actions, choose one, and confirm its effectiveness.
