Your product may do its intended job nicely, but if your competitor introduces something tomorrow which does it better or is more satisfying to use, you’ll soon fall behind commercially.
Companies must also increasingly ensure that their products incorporate “inclusive” design, to make them accessible to customers with cognitive, physical, hearing and visual difficulties. To ensure continuing demand, it’s vital to be sure that your product is designed to be usable and effective as possible – and that can sometimes mean stepping into your customer’s shoes for a change.
The Argus thermal imaging camera allows firefighters to see through the thickest smoke and complete darkness in order to locate casualties and detect the seat of a fire. Originally created by UK company e2v Technologies in 1995, the Argus has been a worldwide success. Recently, advances in technology and developments in the market created the opportunity to create a new improved design for the camera.
Product design consultancy Alloy, who designed the original Argus, were given the challenge of making it even more effective for firefighters to use.
To get an in-depth understanding of the usability issues, the lead designer took part in firefighter training. 'We found that the camera is typically used in short bursts to assess a situation then lowered as firefighters crawl towards the incident,' says Alloy chairman Gus Desbarats. 'A complete repackaging of the internal elements resulted in a slender, vertical product that’s more comfortable to carry. Replaceable handles make it easier to pass the camera from one firefighter to another, and provide impact protection. The improved weight distribution also makes it less fatiguing to use.'
Firefighters the world over have been quick to recognise the advantages of the new design, with the UK government recently ordering over 1,000 for use throughout the country. The new Argus has also won several international awards for its innovative use of design to improve usability and effectiveness.
Most product design agencies can arrange usability studies for your current or planned products. You can also consult a qualified expert in ergonomics or interaction design. In the first instance, using your own products on a regular basis is a simple way to discover areas where they could be improved.