Female Consumers’ Reactions to Body Scanning

Abstract

The body scanner is a new technology that has the potential to resolve issues for the apparel industry in fit of clothing and in communication and visualization of apparel fit. The interest consumers have in the scan process, in being scanned, and in allowing retailers and manufacturers to use their scan data is crucial to the commercial success of these applications. Two related studies were conducted. First, 203 female participants aged 35 to 55 were surveyed after they were scanned and viewed their scanned images on the computer monitor and in a movie file. For 22 of these participants, an observer also recorded their verbal and nonverbal responses to the scan process and viewing their scan. Although general acceptance of scanning was very high, women who were married and had over $100,000 household income were significantly less comfortable with some aspects of the body scan process. Observations of participants’ verbal, facial, and bodily expressions found some participants to be unsettled and unprepared for interactions with the unfamiliar yet personalizing technology.

Saudi Arabian consumer's interest in commercial application of 3D body scanner in the apparel market

“…Results also indicated that personal shopper application has the highest appeal to consumers among other applications. Loker et al (2005), explored the actual process with participants and indicated high interest in the scanning process. They conducted two related studies.…”

“…Loker et al . (2005), explored the actual process with participants and indicated high interest in the scanning process.…”

A Study of Automated Custom Fit: Readiness of the Technology for the Apparel Industry

“…One study found that up to 98% of participants were interested in body scanning technology and willing to be scanned again (Loker, Cowie, Ashdown, & Lewis, 2004). One study found that up to 98% of participants were interested in body scanning technology and willing to be scanned again (Loker, Cowie, Ashdown, & Lewis, 2004).…”

Mass-customized Target Market Sizing: Extending the Sizing Paradigm for Improved Apparel Fit

“…Images in 3D allow visual analysis for shape, posture definition, and categorization (for example, the identification and categorization of different bust shapes by a bra firm). Research supports consumer acceptance of the body scanning process and the use of scan data in research and in consumer applications (Loker et al 2003(Loker et al , 2004a. The collection of body measurements from a large number of people is faster, cheaper, less invasive, and more efficient than can be accomplished using traditional methods.…”