Consumer perspectives on the usability and value of the iBOT^® wheelchair: findings from a case series

Abstract

Purpose: The iBOT^® is an advanced power wheelchair introduced in 2003 for people with mobility impairments to enhance their independence and community access. Although this innovation soon gained popularity, the production of this wheelchair was recently stopped owing to the lower-than-expected sale figures. In this scenario, this study examines the impact of this wheelchair on current consumers by highlighting its usability in multiple contexts and verifying the value associated with its ownership. Method: Seven active consumers of the iBOT^® were interviewed using a mixed method approach. Participants discussed and rated the iBOT’s usability in relation to their standard power wheelchair and shared their perceived value for it. A content analysis was used to elucidate the qualitative data, whereas the quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and non-parametric comparisons to compute differences in consumer ratings for the two wheelchairs. Result: Results, although statistically non-significant (α < 0.05), indicated the iBOT^® to be a highly multi-functional wheelchair with relatively superior usability in workplace (p = 0.15), community (p = 0.18) and outdoors (p = 0.1). Participants greatly valued its capability to expand their mobility in otherwise inaccessible environments and to enhance their social participation through eye level communication. Conclusion: The iBOT^® serves as an exemplar to promote interest and funding for advanced AT devices for people with disabilities.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• The iBOT was designed and developed as an advanced multi-utility wheelchair with innovative functions such as stair climbing, seat elevation and four-wheel drive.

• Compared to a standard power wheelchair, a small cohort of iBOT users reported the iBOT to have better usability in workplace and outdoor environments. Most importantly, the users highly valued using the iBOT to enhance their community access and social interaction.

• However, the production and sales of this wheelchair was called off in 2009 owing to its high cost and limited commercial viability.

Keywords::

• Assistive technology
• independence
• mobility impairments
• participation
• usability
• wheeled mobility

Acknowledgement

The authors are grateful to all the participants in the study for their time and shared insights. Assistance in data gathering and management was provided by Cristina Purdum, a former Graduate Student in the Department of Occupational Therapy at University of New Hampshire. The principal author is also thankful to the Faculty Writing Group comprising of Professors Elizabeth Crepeau, Douglas Simmons, and Susan Merrill for inputs provided with the writing of this article.

Declaration of Interest

Funding for the study was provided by the Faculty Development Fund of the College of Health and Human Services, University of New Hampshire.