Effects of Cost-Related Feedback on Consumer Knowledge and Consumption Behavior: A Field Experimental Approach

Abstract

In 1981, the United States and Canada began a series of international field experiments to test the effectiveness of feedback as a way to encourage energy conservation. Current government studies show energy consumption is again on the rise after several years of decline. The research objective was to extend current feedback research by providing information formats and presentation modes that had not been previously tested but did represent realistic public policy and/or marketplace options. Results of the experiment replicated in two U.S. and two Canadian cities provide partial support for feedback as a viable information technology for consumer learning and motivation.