| For some packaged software, the out-of-the-box (OOBE) is important. OOBE has been popularized by IBM's ease-of-use initiatives. (For more details about OOBE, please visit the IBM Web site mentioned in the bibliography at the end of the book.) A favorable experience goes a long way toward determining the perception of usability of the system. The following elements contribute to the overall OOBE: Packaging is the users' first encounter with products they have acquired. Their perceptions of product quality will reflect product packaging design, which addresses such aspects as number of boxes, size and weight, carrying and transportation, grouping and organization of items, identification and verification of contents, and conveying product/brand attributes. Unpacking should be an easy and efficient task. This requires attention to aspects such as unpacking instructions, opening outer boxes, order and organization of interior items, removing and unwrapping interior items, completeness and inventory checks, disposal of wrapping and packing materials, ease of repacking, and "In case of difficulty" instructions. Hardware setup design addresses aspects such as instructions and aids, physical arrangement of components, connectors, levels of setup, assembly, setup options, and "In case of difficulty" instructions. Power-on is the first plateau of achievement for the user. The design of the power-on experience addresses immediate feedback that setup was successful, rewards, thank-you notes, welcome messages and mementos, and "In case of difficulty" instructions. Configuration of the system addresses aspects such as installing and configuring post-setup options, such as passwords, device and network parameters, and system level defaults; removing unwanted software and features; agreeing to product license terms; submitting product registration information; subscribing to product information and updates; satisfying any warranty requirements; and getting assistance. Introduction to use considers design aspects such as product features and capabilities, sources of assistance, and "In case of difficulty" instructions. Getting to work addresses design aspects such as helping users achieve what they want to, providing active assistance as the default, teaching how to use supplied applications in everyday tasks, and providing easy and quick support in case of difficulty. Further assistance must be provided in multiple ways so that it is available at every step, including written instructions, tips, and troubleshooting guides, some period of free telephone support, Web sites for support and frequently asked questions, technical support via email, and user groups.
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