Tips and tricks for user-centric design:
Tips and Tricks for User-Centric Design
Designing medical devices that prioritize the needs and limitations of patients is crucial for their effectiveness and safety. Leanne Yip, head of design and usability at Springboard, a product research and design consultancy, shares some valuable tips and tricks for achieving user-centric design.
Understanding the limitations of users is a fundamental aspect of designing medical devices. Factors such as sight, dexterity, and learning difficulties can greatly impact how patients interact with these devices. By taking these limitations into account, designers can create products that are accessible and easy to use for a wide range of patient populations.
Packaging Design Example
One area where user-centric design is particularly important is in packaging design. Yip provides an example of designing medication packaging for patients undergoing oral chemotherapy. In the first set of images, the boxes for different dosages look very similar, making it difficult to differentiate them, especially for patients who may be in a rush or have visual impairments. However, in the second set of images, the design is improved by using larger fonts and different color backgrounds to clearly indicate the concentrations. It’s important to consider factors like color blindness, as certain individuals may have difficulty distinguishing between colors.
Talking to the right participants is crucial in the design process. Different users, such as parents, caregivers, maintenance personnel, and healthcare practitioners, may interact with the device in various ways. The FDA recognizes the importance of considering distinct user populations, such as different age categories or professional categories, as their characteristics and tasks may influence their interactions with the device. By involving the right participants and understanding their unique needs, designers can create medical devices that are effective and user-friendly for all users.
To draw things to a close, user-centric design is essential in creating medical devices that prioritize patient safety and usability. By understanding user limitations, considering packaging design, and involving the right participants, designers can ensure that their products meet the needs of a diverse patient population.
Photo Credit: med-technews.com
