Mice, Keyboard Survey Points Up User Needs

Redmond, Wash. — The necessity for high quality and comfort among computer mice and keyboards has been linked to the fact that office employees spend more time in front of their computer screen than sleeping, according to a survey commissioned by Microsoft Hardware.

The company found that two out of three office workers spend at least six hours a day using a computer, and nearly 25 percent said they spend eight hours a day at the computer.

The survey, conducted by InSightExpress, was given to 200 full-time or part-time office workers in the United States who use their computers regularly.

Not only did the survey point up the need for developing sophisticated products to help keep workers productive and comfortable day after day, said Microsoft, but it also emphasized the need for reliable computer accessories, suggesting that few employees have the expertise to fix their computer devices when these break down. Nearly two-thirds of respondents perceived repairing their mouse and keyboard to be more difficult than repairing a flat tire, said the company.

Additional survey results about consumer perceptions of mice and keyboards showed eight out of 10 computer users believe high-quality mice and keyboards have an important impact on their ability to be productive at work. Nearly 60 percent said high-quality mice and keyboards would even boost morale in the office.