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Today’s
multi-functional devices can be complex, and often the purchasers of such
products have little experience in the use or understanding of their
capabilities. Ideally, operational functions would be designed in a way
that leads the user to perform the proper actions. In
fact, however, ergonomics is more often a marketing buzzword than a
design reality. Many product designs and user interfaces are
incomprehensible and even threatening to users. Far from user-friendly,
these designs may actively obstruct efficient operation.
 Much
of the value of a product may come from the ability of the user to easily
understand it. Even the best ergonomic interface may not make a highly
technical device usable overnight, but good design can make a large
difference in the time required for user mastery. Medical devices, for
example, may require considerable explanation and repetitive use before
the user can operate them accurately with confidence. An experienced
designer recognizes that even minor changes in things such as button
placement or size can create major usage consequences.
There
are a number of basic ergonomic guidelines which can be incorporated into
a design that will eliminate or reduce learning curve times. Let’s look
at some "sensory cues" that one of our designers, Tim Payne,
uses to guide his decision-making when designing a product.
GROUPING
The first level of simplification is to organize
related controls and displays into recognizable groups. The
user should not have to search for around for associated functions.
Priority
Ranking
Frequently used and critical interfaces should be prominently displayed.
This can be achieved with visual and tactile differences through the use
of color, size, shape, texture, placement, orientation, and lighting.
Numerous infrequently used controls can add clutter and intimidate users.
If these are non-emergency functions, it may be preferable to place them
in less prominent or even hidden areas (behind an access panel, For
instance). The designer should keep in mind that frequency of use may vary
among users and situations.
Clarity
Controls should clearly identify user options and what they were
originally designed for. Unclear labels, incomplete instructions, and
unexplained steps cost users uncounted hours of wasted effort and
frustration.
Consistency
Maintain consistency by making sure similar or
identical interfaces operate in a similar manner. Controls should
also respond the same way every time. While multifunctional buttons may
conserve space and reduce cost, they can also be a source of user
aggravation.
Positive
Feedback
If possible, the device should confirm to the user that input has been
received and is appropriate. Such feedback should be
immediate, to prevent the user from repeating the function. Some
ways to accomplish this are to provide tactile, visual, or audio
responses. In addition, the designer can help prevent user confusion by
giving different types of feedback for dissimilar functions.
Aesthetics
Appearance considerations are important for even the most mundane
or practical of products. We all respond to a pleasing, welcoming
appearance. Potential purchasers may even sacrifice a degree of
functionality to obtain a product that answers or satisfies their
aesthetic needs.
Finally
it is wise practice to frequently expose target users to developing
designs. Pre-production models, focus groups, and 3-D renderings help make
the end user a key part of the process. Customer insights, fresh
perspectives, and real world experience can play a major role in producing
a successful and usable design.
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