Since February 2006 Photoviolationmeter.com has operated parking meters on a trial basis at the UBC village. From the perspective of ubiquitous computing and HCI, I am interested in how extensively these are being used and the ease of use for patrons. As there are a number of regular parking meters nearly I wonder the extent to which people (if aware of the option) are willing to try something new vs. focussing on what is known.
You can pay with a credit card and then would have the option of staying up to 2 hours at which time the exact amount will be charged to your card when you drive away. The “keep clear” sign is there so that a camera on the machine can record your license number.
There are instructions to operate the machine and you can spend as 10 cents for 2 minutes and if your meter expires you are expected to pay the expired amount before leaving (flashing red light indicates a violation). Credit cards (visa/mastercard) are accepted or coins can be used. A standard keypad is provided for input.
Some questions I have: What factors determine whether someone tries a new ubiquitous technology. For example, do those who’s first language is not english avoid this machine becuase of the amount of reading required? Is time, cost to learn to use, availability of other meters nearby a factor? How are violations enforced? What privacy issues will exist now?
Relevance: System uses ubicomp technology on campus.