Case Study : Westcotec phone detection warning system continued ...
Challenge 3 : “ How do we know if it even ‘ works ’?”
The ‘ observation ’ activity recommended ( see previous page ) could assist here as it should ( hopefully ) show that most activators are actually drivers . Part of evaluation , though , is about the process as much as the outcomes . For the device to ‘ work ’ in a behaviour change sense it needs to ‘ work ’ reliably in a technical sense . We would suggest that users of the device are contacted for feedback that could be used as feedforward into the design and marketing of the future .
The device records numbers of activations and this data could be used to establish impact following the introduction of the sign . We suggested taking a baseline level of activations ( where no sign is present and no road users are aware of anything out of the ordinary ), then a measure whilst the sign is installed and operating , and then a measure after the sign is removed . There are limitations here , as we do not know who , if anyone , is ceasing use ( it could be passengers !), but there are options to explore here . As well as an important safety finding , this would make for good promotional material .
Challenge 4 : “ it picks up all sorts of signals that are legal !”
It seems a common perception that lots of signals are sent out by mobiles that are not physically ‘ in use ’. Again , this indicates a lack of understanding of the purpose of the sign in many cases , but it isn ’ t helpful if people are being ‘ flashed ’ when they are not using a phone and no-one in the car is either ( if this happens ) as that undermines the technology and further detracts from the point of it all . However , we understand that this is not the case , so would advise addressing that concern in promotions work .
Mobile : Engaged Impact
Following engagement with the Mobile : Engaged project , the Managing Director of Westcotec said ...
“ Westcotec are very indebted to the MobileEngaged team . We were very privileged to be invited to be involved in and have access to , the knowledge and expertise , not only from the team , but also to gain from the wider experiences from other participants in the programme .”
“ Our project has definitely benefited from the guidance and constructive criticism we have received through the compendium as well as suggestions as to future developments .”
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