Work
Elevating the Usability of Cardiology Device GUI + Remote
Client
Anonymous Global Medical Device Company
Timeline
6 months, 2023
Role
Sr. Experience Research + UI Design Consultant
Team
Cardiology Systems Engineers
Human Factors Engineer
Industrial Designers
Human Factors Engineer
Industrial Designers
Project Overview
Note: This work is under a strict Non-Disclosure Agreement.
I led a cross-functional team to strategize and execute a mix of qualitative and quantitative research sessions. Our goal was to design and enhance the remote and generator design and UI for the next-generation renal denervation device, aimed at assisting interventional cardiologists in treating drug-resistant chronic hypertension.
I led a cross-functional team to strategize and execute a mix of qualitative and quantitative research sessions. Our goal was to design and enhance the remote and generator design and UI for the next-generation renal denervation device, aimed at assisting interventional cardiologists in treating drug-resistant chronic hypertension.
Takeaway 1: GUI + Remote Functionality for the Dark Cath Lab
The project brought unique challenges to the forefront, notably the dimly lit environment of catheterization laboratories where the medical device was used. This setting necessitated a dark mode interface to ensure usability without straining the eyes of medical professionals, while also being sensitive to the logistics of a highly structured, diverse set of permanently mounted hardware and software that varied lab to lab. As the lead research and design consultant, I spearheaded the initiative to introduce this first layer of complexity into our design process.
The procedure is conducted in a dark cath lab, due to the type of anesthesia the patient is under. Cath Labs have multiple considerations, such as layout, variability of permanent vs transient devices, availability and use of screen mirroring, among others.
Takeaway 2: Range of Archetypes for Operability
I also incorporated the diversity of user archetype traits—from those delegating control to others across the room to those desiring full command via the remote—required a flexible design approach. These complexities were further magnified by the procedure's inherent length, a factor we couldn't alter due to the fixed nature of the algorithm. My objective was to significantly enhance the perceived efficiency of the procedure through strategic UI and usability improvements.
Takeaway 3: Welcoming Multiple Lenses
In this project, a significant challenge involved managing stakeholder relationships, particularly with a client partner who was initially uncertain about the benefits of our iterative design process. As lead consultant, I engaged in open discussions to clarify our method's logic and its essential role in obtaining FDA clearance. I emphasized how our design, featuring a responsive UI and adjustments for color blindness, plus unique tactile cues, was carefully tailored to user needs identified through our research. This personalized strategy gradually transformed initial uncertainty into support, securing backing from both initially hesitant partners and senior leadership. They appreciated the research-driven design enhancements, recognizing the improvements in usability and reporting. This journey highlighted the importance of empathy, comprehensive research, and innovative design in bridging differences and enhancing medical device usability.
