Experts' assessment of the impact of electronic control on the operation of household appliances

The purpose of this study was to find out what effects electronics have on the operating characteristics of household appliances, and to analyse the differences' in attitudes towards these between male and female groups. The study method used was an expert inquiry. The experts represented different fields involved with household appliances. Nearly all the respondents agreed that the use of electronics in household appliances is likely to increase. Men took a much more positive attitude toward the prospect of using more electronics than women and were additionally more willing to choose an electronic model than an electromechanical one. Men considered that electronics allowed the development of more versatile, changeable and automatic appliances; while women were more likely to value safety, reliability and ease of operation. Results indicate that electronic appliances do not comply with all user demands today and most users need more and more advice in buying and using modern appliances.