What is it about?
Weather apps are widely used, but users often feel that forecasts are inaccurate even when they are actually correct. Our study focuses on two popular Japanese weather apps to investigate how this perception gap arises. Through user interviews, we found cases where forecast elements, such as weather icons and technical terms, are not properly understood. Additionally, frequent updates and differences in data sources aimed at improving accuracy are not well understood, leading to perceived inconsistencies. We propose solutions like redesigning icons and providing verbal explanations to enhance user trust and satisfaction with weather forecasts.
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Why is it important?
Our study reveals why users often perceive weather apps as inaccurate, despite their importance in daily life. By identifying misunderstandings and inconsistencies, we highlight areas for improvement in app design and communication. This is crucial for enhancing user trust and satisfaction, leading to more reliable and user-friendly weather apps. Our findings offer valuable insights for developers aiming to improve weather app effectiveness and user experience.
Perspectives
Writing this article was a rewarding experience, as it allowed me to delve deeper into the user experience of weather apps, a topic I am passionate about. Collaborating with my co-authors was enlightening, and I hope our findings will inspire improvements in how information is communicated. I believe that improving weather apps can significantly enhance daily decision-making for many people, and I am excited to see how this research will contribute to that progress.
Eri Hioki
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Understanding the Gap between Forecast Accuracy and User Perceptions: Case Study of Japanese Weather Apps, October 2024, ACM (Association for Computing Machinery),
DOI: 10.1145/3679318.3685488.
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