Usability evaluation of frugal innovation: A case of mobile training for micro businesses in Tanzania

Abstract

This study evaluated a mobile training pilot prototype designed for micro business owners in Tanzania. The paper focused on the extent to which features of the pilot prototype developed under frugal innovation confirmed the defined user requirements of the mobile training and met usability perception of the potential end users in solving the practical problem. The practical problems addressed are time, low education level and geographical challenges facing the training service. The evaluation assessed whether the features of the mobile training pilot prototype met the previously identified user requirements and investigated users’ perceptions of the pilot prototype’s attractiveness and perspicuity and their enthusiasm for it. In this mixed-methods study, data were drawn from a questionnaire and focus group discussions. The study found positive views on the features of the pilot prototype based on the defined user requirements, as well as the usability elements of attractiveness, perspicuity, and enthusiasm. The participants thought that the pilot prototype’s navigation and interaction features needed further modifications to make use of the mobile training application easier. This study contributed that, the artefact developed through frugality innovation within DSR framework confirmed earlier identified user requirements and met usability criteria of attractiveness, perspicuity, and enthusiasm.

Keywords:

• usability
• design science research
• frugal innovation
• mobile training application
• micro business
• micro finance institution