Graphical Features & Perceptions of Reliability

This study examines the impact of graphical features on perceived reliability and user trust in automated systems. Participants viewed 60 static graphs showing system reliability over time, with variables such as maximum reliability, minimum reliability, average reliability, cumulative probability of success/failure, and slope. Each graph was presented with different success or failure rates. Participants rated the system’s reliability, predicted success rates, and willingness to rely on the system. Analysis revealed that perceived reliability was most influenced by minimum reliability when success was depicted and maximum reliability when failure was depicted. These findings suggest that user perceptions of reliability are complex and not solely dependent on the expected features of system performance, indicating a need for further research into the relationship between graphical representations and perceived reliability.