PACT Scoping Technique / Analysis: A Human-Centered Design Framework

The PACT (People, Activities, Contexts, Technologies) scoping technique is a fundamental framework in human-centered design (HCD) that helps designers analyse and understand the key elements of interactive systems. By breaking down the components of design into four core elements—People, Activities, Contexts, and Technologies—PACT provides a comprehensive structure for evaluating the interactions between users and technology. This article explores the PACT framework, its components, and how it supports designers in creating meaningful and effective interactive experiences.

Components of PACT Analysis

1. People

The “People” component emphasises understanding the users of a system. This involves gathering information about their characteristics, needs, behaviours, skills, motivations, and limitations. By gaining insight into the diverse user base, designers can ensure that the interactive systems are accessible and inclusive. Personas and empathy maps are often used tools to represent user characteristics within this component. Understanding people means accounting for cognitive, emotional, and physical differences among users, allowing for more informed decision-making throughout the design process.

2. Activities

“Activities” refer to the tasks or processes that users perform within an interactive system. In this step, designers consider the goals of the activity, the tasks required to achieve those goals, and any constraints or limitations that could affect task performance. Activities can vary in terms of complexity, frequency, and duration, and they might involve different types of interactions, such as physical, digital, or social. Analysing activities helps ensure that the designed systems are well-aligned with user goals and promote efficient and enjoyable interaction experiences.

3. Contexts

The “Contexts” component of PACT considers the circumstances in which interactions take place. This includes the physical environment, the social environment, and any cultural or organisational aspects that might influence user interaction. For example, an application designed for use in a noisy public environment might need different interaction modes compared to one used in a quiet office setting. Additionally, understanding the temporal aspects—such as when users interact with the system—enables designers to create solutions suitable for various scenarios and conditions. Contexts are critical in ensuring that the interactive solution works seamlessly in real-world environments.

4. Technologies

The “Technologies” component of PACT analysis encompasses the devices, software, and infrastructure used to facilitate interaction. This could include smartphones, sensors, wearables, or interactive displays. Designers must consider the capabilities and limitations of these technologies, as well as the ways in which different technologies can complement each other. The aim is to choose technologies that support the intended activities, are compatible with the contexts, and are usable by the people for whom the system is designed.

Applying PACT in Design

PACT analysis is a versatile approach for scoping and exploring design opportunities. By iteratively analysing the four components, designers can generate insights that are essential for user-centred design processes. It serves as a foundation for identifying potential usability issues, opportunities for innovation, and the needs of users in different environments.

For instance, in the design of a wearable device for anxiety management in children, the PACT framework can help:

  • People: Understand the unique needs of children, their caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
  • Activities: Identify key tasks such as monitoring physiological signals, providing calming feedback, and involving caregivers.
  • Contexts: Consider the various environments where children might need to use the wearable, such as at school, home, or in transit.
  • Technologies: Determine the suitable sensors, feedback mechanisms, and the device’s compatibility with other technologies such as mobile apps.

Applying PACT in Interactive Systems Design

Applying the PACT framework in interactive systems design allows designers to systematically explore and align user requirements, technological possibilities, and contextual factors. By incorporating each element of PACT into the design process, designers can ensure that the resulting systems are human-centred, adaptable, and effective.

For example, when designing an interactive smarthome system, the PACT framework can guide the process as follows:

  • People: Identify the characteristics and needs of the residents, including their preferences, routines, and varying levels of comfort with technology. Consider how different members of the household—such as children, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities—might interact with the smarthome system and what specific support they might require.
  • Activities: Define key activities within the smarthome, such as controlling lighting, managing security systems, adjusting the thermostat, and integrating entertainment systems. Consider the goals of these activities, such as enhancing comfort, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring safety.
  • Contexts: Examine the environments where interactions occur, including different rooms within the home and various times of day. Consider how factors like privacy, the availability of natural light, and the presence of multiple household members could influence the use of the system.
  • Technologies: Evaluate the technologies involved, such as sensors, smart speakers, cameras, and mobile apps. Assess whether the technologies are compatible with the home infrastructure, easy to use, and reliable across different contexts. Consider how different devices can work together to provide a seamless user experience.

Using PACT in this structured manner provides a clear pathway for integrating human-centred thinking throughout the development of interactive systems. This method also highlights areas where further research or prototyping may be needed to address specific challenges or optimise the design.

Extending PACT to Include Other Species

Recent discussions in the field of human-computer interaction have proposed extending the PACT framework to include other species, recognising the interconnected nature of modern ecosystems. The article by Chamaidi, Stavrakis (2024) explores the possibilities of expanding the traditional scope of PACT to consider non-human animals as stakeholders in interactive systems design. This extension reflects the growing interest in multispecies interaction design, where technologies not only serve human needs but also consider the needs and experiences of other species.

Incorporating Non-Human Species into PACT

  • People (Extended to Species): The “People” component could be broadened to include other species that interact with or are affected by the system. This includes understanding the needs, behaviours, and preferences of animals. For instance, in the design of interactive systems in a smart farming environment, livestock such as cows or chickens could be considered as key stakeholders. Designers would need to understand the animals’ sensory capacities, behavioural responses, and welfare needs.
  • Activities: Activities would include tasks performed by both humans and non-humans. In a multispecies context, this could involve activities such as feeding, movement within shared environments, and social interactions. For instance, in a domestic setting, activities could include interactions between pets and automated devices (e.g., a smart feeder or a pet activity tracker). Evaluating these activities would require a nuanced understanding of animal behaviour and how they perceive technological interventions.
  • Contexts: The “Contexts” component becomes even more significant when considering other species, as animals often inhabit different physical environments or have distinct requirements compared to humans. Evaluating contexts would involve understanding the natural habitats, spatial needs, and environmental conditions that support animal well-being. For instance, a smart system for monitoring wildlife must account for natural terrains, time of day, and seasonal behaviours that influence animal movement and interaction.
  • Technologies: Technologies for non-human species need to be appropriate for their sensory and cognitive capabilities. For example, sound-based interfaces might be designed for animals with acute auditory senses, whereas visual cues might be better suited for species that rely more heavily on sight. Technologies should also be evaluated for their impact on animal welfare, ensuring they do not introduce stress or harm.

Evaluating Interactive Systems Design Against PACT

Evaluating interactive systems design against the PACT framework involves systematically assessing how well each component—People, Activities, Contexts, and Technologies—has been addressed in the final design. This evaluation ensures that the system design meets user needs, aligns with intended activities, fits the context of use, and leverages appropriate technologies effectively. This evaluation ensures that the system meets user needs, aligns with intended activities, fits the context of use, and leverages appropriate technologies effectively. The following considerations can guide the evaluation process:

  • People: Evaluate whether the system accommodates the diverse needs and characteristics of its users. Are there any usability issues for specific user groups, such as children, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, or other species? Are the users satisfied with their interactions with the system?
  • Activities: Assess whether the system supports the intended activities efficiently and effectively. Are users, including non-human species, able to complete their tasks without unnecessary complexity or barriers? Are there any redundant or missing functionalities that affect user or animal goals?
  • Contexts: Determine if the system works well in the various environments where it is used. Does the system adapt appropriately to different physical, social, or temporal contexts? Are there issues related to privacy, accessibility, or suitability in specific settings, including those that involve other species?
  • Technologies: Evaluate whether the technologies used are appropriate for the tasks and contexts. Are the technologies reliable and easy for users to interact with? Is there a seamless integration between different devices and components? Do the technologies consider the capabilities and well-being of non-human users?

The evaluation against an extended PACT should involve direct feedback not only from human users but also from behavioural studies of animals interacting with the system. Observing both human and non-human interactions in real-world contexts can provide valuable insights into how well the system meets the needs of all stakeholders. Metrics such as task completion time, error rates, user satisfaction, and behavioural indicators of comfort or stress in animals can provide quantitative evidence of the system’s effectiveness.

Using PACT in Usability and User Experience Evaluation

The PACT framework is also an effective tool for usability and user experience (UX) evaluation. By assessing each component of PACT—People, Activities, Contexts, and Technologies—designers and evaluators can gain a detailed understanding of how well an interactive system supports users’ needs and expectations.

  • People: During usability evaluation, the “People” component focuses on assessing the system’s ability to cater to the diversity of users, including their abilities, needs, and preferences. Evaluators can conduct user testing with diverse user groups to identify challenges faced by different individuals. This component also involves understanding emotional responses and satisfaction, which are key indicators of user experience.
  • Activities: Evaluating “Activities” involves examining how efficiently and effectively users can perform the intended tasks. Observing users as they interact with the system and measuring performance metrics such as task completion times, error rates, and success rates can help identify areas for improvement. Evaluators should also consider whether the activities align with user goals and whether users experience any difficulties in achieving those goals.
  • Contexts: The “Contexts” component is essential for understanding how usability and UX are affected by different environments in which the system is used. Evaluators should assess whether the system performs consistently across various contexts, such as different physical locations, social situations, or times of day. This ensures that the system is flexible enough to provide a positive user experience regardless of the context of use.
  • Technologies: Evaluating the “Technologies” component involves assessing whether the hardware and software used are suitable for supporting user tasks. This includes examining the reliability, responsiveness, and ease of use of the technologies involved. Evaluators should also consider how seamlessly the technologies integrate with each other to facilitate a coherent and smooth user experience.

Using PACT for usability and UX evaluation provides a structured and holistic approach that ensures all aspects of user interaction are considered. It enables designers to identify specific usability issues related to each component and helps in making informed design decisions that enhance overall user satisfaction and effectiveness.

Benefits of PACT Analysis

The PACT framework is particularly valuable in HCD as it encourages a holistic view of the design process, rather than focusing solely on technology or user interface aspects. By systematically considering each element, designers can anticipate how people, activities, contexts, and technologies interact, ultimately leading to more user-friendly and effective solutions. Extending PACT to include non-human species can further enhance this holistic approach by ensuring that interactive systems contribute positively to broader ecological systems and consider the well-being of all stakeholders.

References

Benyon, D. (2014). Designing interactive systems: A comprehensive guide to HCI, UX and interaction design. Pearson.

Benyon (2019). Designing User Experience: A Guide to HCI, UX and Interaction Design.

Chamaidi T, Stavrakis M. A Multispecies Interaction Design Approach: Introducing the Beings Activities Context Technologies (BACT) Framework. Multimodal Technologies and Interaction. 2024; 8(9):77. https://doi.org/10.3390/mti8090077