This project is a brief overview of the process of designing a prototype for an in-car system. The aim of the prototype was to help reduce the cognitive load on users by scaling back the necessary amount of features so that the vehicle could be operated safely without users having to take their eyes of the road for a dangerous amount of time. Research included interaction types, design principles and design patterns.
RESEARCH
Above:
A) A user requirement table created using the MoSCoW technique to prioritise tasks. Features that will be locked when the vehicle is in motion are shown in grey italics.
B) A example of a design pattern to allow users to customise their map view to suit their needs.
Above:
A) Tasks users are able to complete depending on vehicle state
A) Tasks users are able to complete depending on vehicle state
B) How each design principle is utilised in the design
C) Icons used as affordances alongside their corresponding feature
DEVELOPMENT
The prototype was created using the Axure RP9 software using the colour scheme of the black and blue due to the psychological meanings of sophistication and trust as defined in colour theory.
Above: First iteration of the prototype which featured a menu with two buttons that was removed as it was deemed an unnecessary step.
Above: Main screen of the final prototype
Above:
A) UI elements made to look like physical buttons, indicating that they can be pressed
B) The voice icon was purposely larger than other options to reduce the risk of users accidentally selecting the wrong option
C) Confirmation of voice option being pressed shown as a pop-out listening box
Above:
A) Three button states L-R; default, mouse down, selected
A) Three button states L-R; default, mouse down, selected
B) Various buttons in the selected state, illustrating consistency throughout the design
USER TESTING
A hypothetical research study was then planned to be used to test the effectiveness of the prototype design. A combination of clickstream analysis and eye tracking would be used to get comprehensive qualitative data about how the participants use the system.
Above: Usability goals for the research study
Above:
A) Diagram showing driving simulator set-up
B) Participant task sheet to be filled out by researcher
C) Example of a bar chart to show how results would be presented
