How to design effectively: A study of cognitive differences between visually impaired users and designers in electronic mobility-assistive products

Since mobility relies heavily on vision, it presents substantial challenges for visually impaired individuals. In response, numerous electronic mobility-assistive products, commonly known as electronic travel aids (ETAs), have been developed; however, their real-world adoption rate remains critically low. This study employs a mixed-methods approach to investigate the key factors influencing ETA adoption and examines the cognitive differences between visually impaired users and designers regarding these factors. The findings reveal a significant misalignment: while designers primarily focus on functional compensation and physiological safety, visually impaired users deeply prioritize social integration, psychological empowerment, and stigma avoidance. This research provides actionable insights to bridge the gap between advanced technologies and users’ authentic psychological experiences, ultimately promoting more inclusive, empathetic, and effective future product development.