Multi-Device Use: Understanding the Motivations behind Switching between Multiple Devices during a Task

Multi-device use has become a popular pattern of device use in recent years. However, empirical studies pertaining to motivations behind intention to use multiple devices have been limited. The objective of this study focuses on answering an essential question: given that heterogeneous devices are available to users, why do users use multiple devices rather than a single device to complete a task? Both Task-Technology Fit Theory and mental workload paradigm are considered to develop eight hypotheses and build the research framework. A trip-planning scenario was designed and used in the questionnaire to understand the factors that motivate users to use multiple devices. A total of 217 subjects completed the questionnaire. The results show that perceived task fit with multi-device use forms users' attitudes toward and expected satisfaction with multi-device use. Furthermore, users' attitudes toward multi-device use trigger their intentions to use multiple devices. Additionally, perceived complexity of multi-device use hinders users from perceiving good task fit with multi-device use. Implications for theory, practice, and future research directions are discussed.