POLAR CIRCULAR POLAR RCX3 REDESIGN FINAL REPORT
Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, TU Delft ID4256 - project UXAD (spring 2016) Usability testing and User eXperience Assessment in Design June 21st, 2016
Tibbe Titulaer (4232100) Rick Bakker (4139267) Mengqi Yuan (4514033) Sylvia Machgeels (4205421) Coach: Arnold Vermeeren & David Keyson
UXAD FINAL REPORT
POLAR CIRCULAR POLAR RCX3 REDESIGN
PREFACE This report is the result of the redesign process for the Polar RCX3 training computer, assigned by Polar. We, a team of four with a Design for Interaction (Industrial Designers) background, are asked to test and assess the original Polar RCX3. This resulted into making a redesign concept that evokes best user experience & interaction possible with the same technique levels and investments. This redesign should make the lower boundaries for first time users to purchase a Polar watch and create the best running experience. This final deliverable includes a full concept, worked out digitally and physically. The design can be handed to a production team. Furthermore, the prototypes are included, and a report describing the conclusions of the user testing and design process.
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this report is to communicate the conclusions of the thorough analysis and redesign process of the Polar RCX3 training computer. It explains all the decisions we have made for the redesign. A collection of two reports represents the two phases: analysis and synthesis. The first phase focuses on analysing the Polar RCX3 training computer, by means of user testing and market analysis. The final deliverable of this first report includes a design brief, which was used as a starting point for the final report. This final report shows the second and last phase, synthesis, focusing at the redesign process and assessment by user testing.
The first chapter briefly describes the original product, as well as it visualises the main problems and qualities that were found in the first user test. Furthermore, the comparison with the first redesign concept is made and the design goal is introduced. The second chapter presents the first redesign concept. A brief setup and conclusions of the second user test is presented in the third chapter. The conclusions of this user test are presented by the final redesign concept in the fourth chapter. In this chapter you are taken for a (imaginary) run with this new Polar runners watch. Finally, recommendations and next steps are given in the last chapter.
Project Setup The visual below, shows the general planning for the complete project. The three cycles are leading. fig.1 project setup
CONTENT PHASE 1: ANALYSIS
PHASE 2: SYNTHESIS
01 Executive Summary
06 First Redesign Concept
02 Project Overview
07 Testable Targets
03 Polar RCX3 vs. First Redesign
08 Final Redesign
A first exploration of the product and the context is done, on which the view on the current interaction is formulated. A user test on the original product is conducted to conclude on a SWOT analysis.
04 Assessment Polar RCX3 05 Design Goal
Requirements and a vision are defined in the form of a redesign proposal. A second user test shows the qualities and improvements of the initial redesign. A final redesign is made from these conclusions.
08.1 Usability Cycle 08.2 Unboxing 08.3 Setting up the Watch 08.4 Prepare for a run 08.5 During the run 08.6 After running
09 Recommendations & Next Step 10 Appendix (separate booklet)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report describes the redesign process of the Polar RCX3. A desk research analysis has been performed, followed by user testing and a redesign process. The first results of the user test were implemented in a redesign concept and tested again in a second user test. The report concludes with a final redesign and recommendations for Polar, to be able to take this product to the market. The Polar RCX3 has been designed for starting runners. It is in the lower price range of sports watches. The first time users are the defined target group for the redesign. The first user test has shown that the original watch contains a lot of user-product interaction flaws. The hierarchy and diversity of the menu are not guiding the function of the sensors are not intuitive and the complexity of the product creates a sense of insecurity for the user. To tackle the issues of the original watch, the redesign is designed according to the following design goal: “We want people to feel confident while using the Polar RCX3 training computer, by providing a guiding, intuitive and trustworthy interface.�
The way to accomplish this is by creating a fun and involving product. The engaging factor in this will ensure that the user will use the product for a long time. To generate focus and clarity, only three hierarchical levels are used in the menu of the redesign. To keep this focus a circular screen occupies the most space. As the buttons were positioned inconveniently in the Polar RCX3, the redesign features a ring around the screen that can be turned (scroll) and clicked (push) to control the watch. The second user test has proven the strength of the new concept. The watch is indeed more guiding, intuitive and trustworthy. To add a fun and involving environment, an app has been designed where users can review & share their results with their enthusiastic sporty friends in the form of graphs and achievements. This app, too, was received very well by the participants. The only real flaw in the redesign is the indication to navigate between pages in the menu. A suggestion is posed in the recommendations to enable further research on this part. Furthermore, the electronics of the final products have been suggested as well.
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ORIGINAL POLAR RCX3 A first exploration of the product and the context is done, on which the view on the current interaction is formulated. A user test on the original product is conducted to find out the experience problems and usability problems.
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POLAR RCX3 The Polar RCX3 comes in a white/pink version (female) and a black/red version (male), both with the same functionalities. The redesign focuses on the male version that is specifically for runners (so the package includes a stride sensor). Competitive brands (see similar interfaces in Appendix 4 p.12-17) often use GPS instead of a stride sensor, which makes this specific Polar package stand out (see description of the Polar RCX3 and it’s components in Appendix 2 p.6-9 ).
Figure 1 Target group
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FIRST REDESIGN The screen is defined as a circular form. This is to lay focus on the content of the screen. The outer ring defines the main interaction (turn and push) which is also found intuitively by the form. Interaction is convenient since the ring can be grabbed anywhere, which makes looking unnecessary to push ‘the right button’. The association with the ‘normal watch’ is also seen in this appearance, making it more likely to wear this sports watch on a daily basis. The red colour of the ‘old’ main button is kept to serve as a use due to show that this ring is something to interact with. Also see chapter 2 p.16.
TARGET GROUP The Polar RCX3 is the lower price class of Polar sports watches. This makes the watch perfectly suitable for serious runners (fig.1) that are taking their practice to a higher level by buying their first sports watch. Because of the price & functionality, it is interesting for both novice (never used any kind of device for running or similar products) and expert (have experience with any other sports watch, but the Polar RCX3) runners. It is for both men and women, aged between 20-65 years old, whose main sport is running. They run at least twice as weak, and they want to monitor their progress. They aim for better performances in time, distance and technique, and have the desire to be able to look back at their improvements. See Appendix 2 p.8-9 for a user scenario.
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ASSESSMENT POLAR RCX3 From the first impression and online reviews of users, interaction qualities were defined. A user test was set up on this basis. The goal of this user test was to identify weaknesses & strengths of the interaction and experience for first time users of the Polar RCX3. The setup followed the actions of the usability cycle to (fig.2). 11 participants joined the first user test, including 4 novice users ( novice watch user / application user) and 7 expert users (heart rate monitor user / watch user)
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To be able to gain maximal insights, the level of instructions was kept to a minimum. Instead, the participants had to think out loud as they were discovering the product themselves. See Appendix 5 p.19-21 for full 1st user test setup. The following strengths and weaknesses are found from this analysis (p. 11), the main findings were clustered using design qualities. This resulted into the formulation of the design goal.
Figure 2 Usability Circle
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Figure 3 Problem overview
ASSESSMENT RESULTS Strengths The watch is nice and small, it is lightweight and therefore very comfortable. The quality of the data is good and accurate, due to separate sensors. Furthermore - even though it is difficult to find - it is possible to personalize the watch. This is good for the data, but moreover it works well in terms of user engagement in the product. Personalizing ensures that the user keeps using the product.
During the research there were complaints and issues with the data visibility. This specifically showed while running. The product’s feedback is therefore not always there when needed, which is unreliable for the user. To be able to solve these problems the feedback should be more trustworthy.
Usability Problems Overview Customers currently experience difficulty in understanding how the product should be used and what the data, controls and settings mean. The redesign needs to focus on being more intuitive in order to solve these problems.
Experience Issues
Figuring out which actions can be - or need to be - completed also causes a lot of issues for the user. This means that the product is not transparent enough. The provided manual is often used as last resource by users and proved to be not so helpful. Therefore the redesign should focus on being more guiding.
A visual overview can be found in figure 3.
First time users experience a lack of confidence in using the Polar RCX3. A first impression is really important creating affection with a product. As the results show the product is also rated to be demotivating which can be the result of feeling insecure about their actions. The redesign should create an increase in feeling of confidence compared to the current situation. See Appendix 6 p.23-35 for details about the user test results.
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DESIGN GOAL The design brief serves as a starting point for the redesign. Current usability problems are defined, but also qualities that should be kept (Appendix
6, p28-29). An ambition, regarding in UI & UE, is defined in a manner of a design goal (fig.4).
CURRENT NEW
Figure 4 Current and new qualities
We want people to feel confident while using the Polar RCX3 training computer, by providing a guiding, intuitive and trustworthy interface. Fun & Involving 12
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REDESIGN After the assessment of the original Polar RCX3, a design goal was formulated as guidance for the redesign. Three concepts were defined after an elaborate ideation on the desired interaction qualities. By using fast prototypes (fig.5) and usage inspection to evaluate (see Appendix 12 p.43-46) the strengths and weaknesses of these concepts, the first redesign concept was composed (see Appendix 11 p.42).
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Figure 5. Fast prototyping
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REDESIGN PROPOSAL Form Follows Function The screen is defined as a circular form, with a bright red border. These factors contribute to focus on the content of the screen. Furthermore, this red outer ring determines the main interaction (turn and push). The red colour of the ‘old’ main button is kept to serve as a use cue to show that this ring is something to interact with. This was found highly intuitive in user testing. Besides this, the interaction is convenient since the ring can be grabbed anywhere. This enables the user to operate the watch, without looking at it. Especially during running, this is a strong advantage. In addition to this, the circular shape hints towards traditional watch designs, making it more likely to wear this sports watch on a daily basis. Lastly, in terms of looks, the previous RCX3 is not left out of the equation. There is still an association with it due to form and colour language. Intuitive Package The user tests have shown that none of the participants were able to figure out the usage of the Polar RCX3 components easily. Consequently, we tried to improve this design by using the shape of the package to indicate the function, with the consideration that unboxing is a one time experience and people will learn once they experienced. The stride sensor is now attached to a shoe shaped part in the box, whereas the heart rate monitor is attached to the lid of the box, which is shaped like a chest.
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Guiding navigation Having several menu’s in the original design makes people feel confused. In terms of the hierarchy of information, ‘start a lap’ has the highest priority in the original design. However, there are several steps that need to be done before starting a lap. This resulted into problems for first time users (e.g. starting a lap before preparing the sensors and don’t know how to stop it). Furthermore, the watch often wasn’t adjusted to the user’s personal height and weight In the redesign. In the redesign this function is directly found in the main menu (the first screen after the starting screen). In the redesign, the menu is re-arranged, according to the order of actions from the usability cycle (fig. 2, p.8), as a way to guide the user and give an overview about the functions of the watch. Moreover, the watch is the element in the interaction that takes the initiative to perform action. When a change of settings is required, the watch asks the user to do so. An overview of all the screens can be found in Appendix 17 (p.69-76). Trustworthy connection According to the user test results, 55% of participants forgot to check the stride sensor connection or didn’t know how to connect the sensor with watch (Appendix 6 p.24). The user needs to be reassured that what he/she is doing is right and it should not be an effort. To improve this experience, a more guiding interaction is required. Instead of using the watch to pair sensors, it is the other way around. The user simply presses the button on each sensor to connect with the watch, when the watch asks for it. Coloured LED lights on the sensors will indicate the connected state (i.e. red = not connected; green = connected successfully).
Figure 6 Redesign Prototype
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More relevant data Some people complained that the data shown during the run was not what they wanted to see. In the redesign, the priority of setting a goal is increased in order to encourage the user to set a goal before they go for a run. The views can also be customized so users can set their own preference. In this way, the data that is shown during the run will be more relevant to user. Fun & Involving application Using the USB connector is not efficient. It is an extra product in the box, as well as it is an extra action for the user. To tackle these problems, bluetooth is added to the watch. This allows the user to upload and review the data on a mobile phone, instead of a complicated website.
A mobile phone is a sensible choice to extend the small watch screen because they are able to show more detailed information. For example, data can now be compared in a larger overview or data can be plotted in graphs. Even more important, users can now review data anywhere at any time, and the application allows the user to share their results with other Polar users. This is particularly interesting, because a lot of gyms are currently equipped with Polar measuring apparatus. A polar community is not far away.
Figure 7 Usage steps
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Figure 8 Redesign context
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TESTABLE TARGETS Requirements and a vision are defined in the form of a redesign proposal. A second user test shows the qualities and improvements of the initial redesign. A final redesign is made from these conclusions
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Method The first redesign concept and ideas are tested in the second user test to verify the results so far. The setup of this second user test is kept as close as possible to the first user test for continuity (same tasks, based on the same methods and at the same location). This continuity makes the data comparable. Some minor adjustments were made to create a better focus. 7 participants joined the user test for redesign concept. This time the user test was divided into two scenarios: a brand new watch: (4 participants) or bought second-hand on Ebay (3 participants). In the first scenario the user would be guided through setting up his or her profile when first starting up the watch, opposing to the second scenario where the user would have to reset the watch first. During the first user test, a lot of problems came up when adding personal information. Therefore, a guided setup was designed. However, the second user test also had to show the improvements the watch made without this guidance. The improvement was verified by testing if users in different scenarios were able to fill out their personal information.
‘comfortability’ were rated lower. A big cause for this is the fact that a prototype was used in the redesign testing, whereas the first user test used a real product. This prototype didn’t have the same material and finishing qualities compared to a ‘real’ product. The words involved and inspiring were rated higher than 5 for the redesign, which shows our desired quality of ‘fun & involving’. As the trustworthiness of the Polar RCX3 was rated 5 in the first user test, the target for the second user test was that it should be rated with an average of at least a 6. This criteria was only met for the novice participants (average rate was 6; for expert 5,8) so that leaves some improvement for the final redesign. Furthermore, the level of clarity of the Polar RCX3 is rated 3. The aim for the redesign was to be rated with an average of at least 5. This criteria was met for both novice and expert participants (rated average of 6 by novice; 6,3 by experts). See Appendix 16 p. 57-68 for a detailed overview of the user test results (i.e. questionnaire, emotion flow and problem list).
See Appendix 14&15 p.49-56 for full set-up of the second user test. Main Finding First of all, the word pairs of the questionnaire have shown a positive shift in rating. In general, the word pairs were rated higher for their positive experiences compared to the original Polar RCX3. Only ‘professionality’ and
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System Usability Scale (SUS) The System Usability Scale (SUS by John Brooke, 1986) is a reliable tool to measure the usability of a product in a “quick & dirty” way. This questionnaire consists of 10 statements that can be rated on a 5 point scale (from strongly agree to strongly disagree). The result of SUS shows that the redesign was rated more positively for the experience. Where users had trouble with the original product (rate of 3 or higher; e.g. they found it
unnecessary complex, needed to learn a lot of things before they could get going, didn’t feel very confident while using, found that there was much inconsistency), this was almost not experienced with the redesign (rate of 2 or lower). See Appendix 16 p.59-60 for the result of the SUS.
Overall Error Rate
Original Produc t
Redesign Concept
Novice 100%
73.8%
21.5%
35.5%
Expert 50%
37.5%
12.5%
0%
Novice 20%
0%
0%
0%
Expert 0%
14.2%
0%
0%
Unboxing
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Prepare for a ru n Run
Data review
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FINAL REDESIGN The final user test has proven the value of the redesign, opposed to the Polar RCX3. During the test, some problems were encountered and valuable suggestions were given (see Appendix 16, User Test 2.0 Result, P.57-68 ). The improvements to the watch, as well as all the final decisions, will be discussed based on the usability cycle. This is done so it becomes clear how every component (e.g. watch, sensors, and mobile app) interacts together during the Circular’s use in different phases.
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USABILITY CYCLE As stated before, the following paragraphs will illustrate the Polar Circular in use. This will be done according to the usability cycle that is described below. The full screen navigation can be found in Appendix 17 p.69-76.
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UNBOXING Imagine you bought the watch online and the package now arrived on your doorstep...
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The heart rate monitor can be found in the back of the cap. When unfolding the cap it has the form of a t-shirt
CONGRATULATIONS with your new Polar watch! Enjoy your runs
The stride sensor is packed in a shoelace to indicate that the sensor should go on your shoe
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Guiding Package When opening the package, the box will show a guiding layout to give a clear overview of the watch and the added sensors. The package indicates the function of the components as well as how to use them. In the first user test, 82% of participant weren’t able to define the different components (Appendix 6 p.23). This error rate has decreased to 14% with the renewed package that was used in the second user test (Appendix 16 p.66-67).
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SETTING UP
When starting up the watch for the first time it will start by asking your name & personal information, it actually wants to get to know you. From now on this is really your personal sports watch!
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Intuitive Main Interaction
3 BUTTONS
5 BUTTONS
The original Polar RCX3 contained five buttons. Not only is this a lot, also, it is really uncomfortable in terms of interaction. The user has to use the index finger or the thumb in unnatural ways. This causes annoyance. Moreover, the five buttons each served two purposes, short- or long press. It was a lot to remember and caused confusion.
Every Polar watch has the iconic red button. The red colour of the ‘old’ main button is kept to serve as a use cue. This implicates that the ring is something to interact with. During the second user test 100% of the participants figured out the watch’s complete navigation (e.g. scrolling, selecting, back and light) within a minute!
Original
select Turning the ring to go through selections The trigger form makes it intuitive to use.
New
confirm Click the ring to confirm the selection
back Click to go back The back button is the only other frequently used button besides the red ring. Users therefore succeed in their desired action within 2 attempts!
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Guiding The watch welcomes you when starting up for the first time. An arrow indicates turning the wheel is afforded. By scrolling clockwise the watch will guide you through setting up your profile (see full guiding screens in Appendix 17 p. 70). This includes your name, gender, age and weight. Before a lot of users didn’t even know it was possible to make their watch personal.
This won’t happen with the Polar Circular as the watch takes the initiative! Personal information is also used to calculate metrics like calories or maximum heart rate. With this information the watch can support the user more by delivering accurate and trustworthy feedback.
3 Layer deep structure A lot of problems occurred due to complicated menu structures, users did not know all the possibilities of the watch and got lost in the menu’s which went up to 4 layers deep. Moreover, there were different menu’s to choose from. They had to search through 3 menu’s before they were able to select their desired option. The Circular never goes deeper
than 3 levels and e even if it does, it is intuitive. The user is always able to select their option within three clicks. This adds a lot to the level of understanding with regards to this structure. During the tests the participants never got lost or confused as with the RCX3. They needed less guiding because the structure became easier to remember and understand.
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Main Menu The Polar Circular is transparent. Users understand what options the watch has and where to find them (see Appendix 17 p.69). The watch guides you by showing every important menu in the start screen, which is also the main menu.. This gives a clear overview of the usage process. The four menu options, profile, run, watch and results, were chosen because they represent 4 clear divisions in
the functionalities of a sports watch. This categorization of all functions in 4 division allowed to keep a structured overview which can be displayed in one screen. None of the user test participants were confused by the menu’s names or by their content. Hence, the content of each menu was categorized well. The next page will briefly explain the content of each menu.
Main Menu
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Profile Run
In case you want to adjust something in your personal data after the set-up, you can easily edit in the ‘profile’ menu. It is possible to make multiple profiles in one watch. This is convenient to share the watch with friends which is something users like to do.
Watch All the settings for the watch, such as time, sound, standby time, language, vibration, etc., can be found here. The Polar Circular has the ability to customize the data screens which are shown during a run. More is explained about customizing on page 46. .\
As run is the most frequently used function, it had to be visible in the main screen . This function has been designed as low key as possible. There is hardly any effort in starting . The watch uses the last settings to directly start with the run (after your confirmation).
Profile le PROFILE
RUN Run
WATCH Watch
RESULTS Re Results
Results All the data from previous runs is stored in this menu. Each page displays 4 runs, when a run is selected all data can be seen.
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PREPARE FOR RUN
Since this report is taking you by the hand through the running process, it is now time to set up for the actual run. Let’s start with putting on the sensors.
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Setup a run To setup the watch, the options for running can be found within the ‘run’ menu (top right in the main menu). Within the ‘run’ menu, there are three functions that fit the different user wishes.
My plan This function shows your long term plan with several trainings. The plan itself needs to made on the app. When this is not done yet, the watch will tell you after selection my plan. From my plan you can start the next training in your schedule. Based on the type of training the watch will present a custom screen during the run.
Quick start The quick start function allows a quick and easy start. No need to think of what kind of run you want to do, just go with the flow. The watch uses the latest settings to directly start with the run (after your confirmation*).
Quick goal Choose from 1 to 3 data types to set a goal for that run. In this way you can make different combinations to show data while running (p.44). Based on the combination of goals the watch will present a custom screen during the run.
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Connect the stride sensor on your shoelaces by de clip on the back.
The rubber protection case can be put around the stride sensor.
Attach the heart rate monitor on the strap with the snaps connection
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The strap itself can be connected with snaps as well
Guiding connection
RUNNING heart rate sensor
on
stride sensor
USER'S
INITIATIVE
In the original product the user would have to go into a menu and search for the function to pair the sensors. This requires a lot of initiative and persistence from the user. In the first user test 55% of participants forgot to check the stride sensor connection (see task completion in Appendix 6. p.24) or didn't know how to connect the sensor with watch.
WHEN YOU ARE READY TO RUN, CLICK THE BUTTONS ON SENSORS TO CONNECT
WATCH'S
INITIATIVE
Instead of using the watch to pair sensors, it is the other way around. After you've chosen your run settings, the watch will show an automatic notification to remind you of pairing the sensors. Use the buttons on the sensors to connect them with the watch. The watch will then start pairing. Coloured LED lights on the sensors will indicate the connected state (i.e. red = not connected; green = connected successfully). In the second user test, 100% of participants paired the sensors succesfully and immediately understood the function of the buttons (see Appendix 16 p.66-67).
Original
* in the first redesign concept, users were confused that the run would directly start after connecting the sensors. In this final design, the user first has to confirm before the recording starts.
New
Press Ring to START RECORDING!
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Quick goal You can set a specific goal for each run by choosing the type of data you want to improve on (see Appendix 17 p.72). Of course, most of the times these data are a combination of different types. Therefore, you can choose up to three types of data for your goal. Based on the combination of goals the watch will present a custom screen during the run.
>4
When there are more then 4 elements in one menu, a menu has more pages. The arrow and the number in the middle indicate that you can go further by turning the ring *
* In the first redesign concept, users were often not aware of the indication and the fact that there were more pages. A new design has been chosen for the final concept. See Appendix 20 p.80-81 for an overview of the options.
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My plan If you want to take it more seriously, you can take the time to make a long term plan on the application (more about the app on page 5257).
YOU CAN MAKE A PLAN ON THE APPLICATION
05/07
29/06 1
02/07
31/06
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DURING THE RUN Got your sport cloting on? Ready to go? Let’s get outside then!
Data Visualisation You can choose from several screens of data combinations to visualise your recorded data during the run. Turn the ring clock- or counterclock wise to choose another data combination.
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121 75
Cal
5.1 2.0
Min KM A
KM
121 2.0 5.1 75
10:37:05
2.0
A
KM
A
KM
Min KM
Cal
1
2
3
..
A new option is to create your own combination in ‘custom data set’ (p.46). When running, the order of the screens to choose from will give priority for the last set goal and personalized screens, so you can quickly move on and run with the screens best fit for your current training.
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Vibration The watch can give physical feedback through short vibrations (2 to 3 seconds) when you are not keeping up with the set goal. For example: if you need to go slower, the watch will give a continuous low vibration; if you need to go faster, it will be several short vibrations. With the snooze function (after 2 minutes) you will know how you are progressing. Instead of vibrations the watch can also give sound
2.8
feedback or do both. This can be changed in the watch menu. Of course, there is the option to turn off the vibration in the ‘watch’ menu. There is also the option to turn off the vibration while running. The watch will notice when you’re not living up to the goal and gives you the option to turn off the feedback.
KM
Countdown:
SPEED UP!
00:21:01 First View My Goal/ My Plan
Speed Up Vibration
Personal Experienced running watch-users mentioned to be disappointed with the absence of the option to personalize their data sets shown while running. The Polar Circular offers this new function. Saved datasets can be seen during the run. The watch thinks along with you, it is your assistant because it wants to,
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not because you tell it to be so. In essence, it always shows the screen most suitable, because it adjust the visible datasets to your goal or plan. See Appendix 17 p.75 for an overview of the customize screen flow.
Take it easy. A bit slower
The watch gives feedback on how you’re doing (e.g. if your need to go faster or slower).
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01..
..01
When you’ve set a goal, you can see your progress on the watch. It will show the number of your goal counting down, while the second data type (e.g. time or distance) is counting up.
Running with a goal can motivate people to keep running and keep getting closer to their final goal (this really sounds like we need to refer to a paper). Polar Circular is designed to keep the user motivated through: smart plans and realistic goals, fast earned achievements and a social community that is connected to the watch which allows the user to compete against friends/relatives.
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Trustworthy feedback
heart rate
154
g
A
b
5:15 4:22
138 02.0
min km km
KM H
TYPES OF DATA
1-3 TYPES OF DATA
In the first user test, 75% of the participants had difficulties to read the screen while running and felt interrupted during the run. Furthermore 54% of the participants were not satisfied with the type of data they saw. See task completion in Appendix 6 p.24.
These percentage are decreased to 0% and 28% in the second user test (Appendix 16 p.6667).
>3
Next to the option to choose the type of data you want to see (previous pages), the size of the data on the screen is bigger and more clear so while running, users can easily see the data within 3 seconds. The option to set the number of different data types in one screen also gives the user freedom to explore what works best for him or her.
Original
New
select
confirm
back
Scroll through the data combinations.
Tap the ring to do a lap.
Click back to pause a lap. Click again to stop the recording or click the ring to continue the lap.
This is an intuitive & easy action to do while running.
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AFTER RUNNING
After you stopped recording, the watch will directly provide you with a short overview of your results. More extensive results can be reviewed in the app.
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A
heart rate
1381 78 AVG MAX
DISTANCE
10.89KM Time
1:02:08
MORE RESULTS IN APPLICATION
SPEED
10.05KM/H avg
12.03KM/H
ACHIEVeMENTS
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Data Review Scroll through the data by scrolling clockwise. In the first redesign concept, users would expect that at the last data screen, scrolling clockwise would bring them back to the first data screen (make a loop). Originally this wasn’t the case (after the last screen, scrolling clockwise would bring you to the run menu again; scrolling counterwise back go through the data). In the final redesign this is the case.
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In the application, you’ll find a more elaborate overview of your results. Here you can also compare results with other runs, goals or with your friends.
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Results in Application To upload your data from watch to your online database the Polar RCX3 model used an USB receiver stick for in your computer. Using the USB stick to transfer data is not efficient and inconvenient since it requires an action on the user's part. A bigger screen is needed for reviewing more detailed data. Mobile phones and tablets are a sensible addition to the possibility of extending the small watch screen next to computers. The bluetooth connection automatically uploads your data after given permission in the app. Users can now, without effort, review data anywhere at any time on their portable devices. "data uploaded"
After the run you will get a notification on the app
NORMAL HEART RATE DURING RUNNING MAXIMUM Subtract your age from 220 to find your maximum heart rate AVERAGE HEART RATE subtracting your resting heart rate from your max heart rate
WHAT IS SPORT ZONE Training is divided into five sport zones based on percentages of your maximum heart rate
Before, expert and novice users, not always knew what 1 all the different types of data 2 meant. The results section briefly explains the basics 3 per subject. This way the step to learn is minimized 4 which could get users more involved and motivated. 5
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MAXIMUM 90–100% 171–190 bpm HARD 80–90%
152–172 bpm
MODERATE 70–80% 133–152 bpm LIGHT 60–70%
114–133 bpm
VERY LIGHT 50–60% 104–114 bpm
My Plan Here you can set a plan and sync that to the watch (see Appendix 19 p.78-79 for the full app workflow). Polarpersonaltrainer.com offered the same option, in the app some changes
have been made. It is now possible to select how many times a week you want to run and which days and day parts suit your day to day life schedule best.
Plan Progress
05/07
29/06
“Run 6.0 KM/hour for 30 minutes�
1 02/07
29/06 Plan
31/06
START
task list on the watch
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My Profile The watch can be used by multiple users at the same time (e.g. share with friends), while the application is completely personal, only one profile will be shown on the application, but several profiles can be used in the watch. To switch between profiles in the watch simply go to profile and choose switch, to edit your profile choose edit.
PROFILE
MENGQI YUAN STARTER
HEIGHT 160CM
AGE 23
WEIGHT 49KG
CURRENT ACTIVITY RUNNING 2
One Profile Found Mengqi Yuan
52:34:06 OVERALL DURATION
OK
75% MY PLAN HALF MARATHON
SWITCH TO OTHER ACTIVITIES RUNNING 2 BIKING 1
You are able to choose an activity (running, biking, etc.) and separate your data.
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Achievements Achievements are new records, that are made during the run, as a way to motivate the user. Achievements are based on quick goals, your long-term plan or personal records. The app holds a large number of records like: fastest first three minutes, best 5 kilometer, 3 runs in a week or longest cooling down. This is designed so the user will almost always earn achievements. These achievements can only be seen in the app but are mentioned in the watch at the results. Users won’t get pop ups, but instead can choose for themselves if they like to see them.
ACHIEVEMENTS LONGGEST DURATION! NEW SPEED RECORD! 3 TIMES RUNNING PER WEEK!
A special Polar platform for friends who do also sport (so no Facebook).
Polar Community Next to comparing your own results, you can also share and see results of other fanatic sporters in the ‘community’. How do they reach their goals? It is possible to like or comment on each other's runs. The power of social motivation cannot be underestimated, a lot of users like to see what others do and share their own progress.
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RECOMMENDATIONS & NEXT STEPS To fully assure that the redesign of this watch is the desired next step for Polar, it is most important to verify the last decisions that we have made. Besides this, it is important to consider our recommendations and to validate them with user testing in further development
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Watch thickness & turning mechanism To be able to realise a minimum watch thickness, it is important to gain a little more knowledge about the technological limits of the watch. The watch will include a small software chip, a bluetooth connector, a pressure sensor (like the apple trackpad), a very small speaker, a few buttons and a 2mm screen. This paragraph will discuss the degree to which this thickness can be reduced. Most important for the thickness will be the pressure sensor (already one of the most compact options). The sensor can replicate the feeling of pressing something, without actually pressing it (in this case pressing the ring)This is realised by the same technology that the new apple trackpad uses. Furthermore, the Bluetooth connection will be established with a small sensor and a receiver. As every current mobile phone is equipped with one of these sensors (and these phones become thinner with the week), this will not generate a lot of problems.
The turning mechanism will function with help of a small magnet in the ring, and a small steel circle in the case. This allows the watch to turn without an extreme thickness. In addition to this, it will allow the user to open the watch, and clean it, whenever this is required. As the user is a sports fanatic, he or she will most likely also train outside and the option of dirt getting into the ring can thus not be excluded. To make sure that this is not influencing the user’s product experience, the watch needs to be able to be taken apart and cleaned if needed.
Dirt while running Like mentioned in the previous paragraph, the ring is connected to the case with help of a small, strong magnet. Not only does this allow a thin turning mechanism, but moreover it will allow the user to clean his/her watch. On the long term, this can even mean that the user is able to change parts when broken or to the ring into a different colour for example.
Next, there is the small speaker. For this, the original Polar RCX3 speaker will be used. It was small enough to fit in the watch, whereas it is also most convenient in terms of production cycle.
magnet
steel ring
watch case, ring, screen, buttons & speaker
pressure sensor
bluetooth connection
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Next page Whenever there are more than four options in a menu, you will be navigated to a second page. This provides the user with continuity in the number of options, as well as it gives a good overview (since the pie pieces can get really small when there are more than four and create rather chaos than overview). Keeping the depth-levels of the menu to a minimum creates a very flat and transparent structure. However, it is important to make clear to the user that there is a next page available. This was not directly clear in the final redesign, as users had to figure out there was a next page by trial & error. The design of the next page indication could therefore be designed and tested more thoroughly.
In the described design, there is room for a maximum of four pages. This seems most convenient, because long term use will require this possibility, since a lot of data will be stored from different runs. However, when the watch stimulates a weekly or monthly upload to the application on the user’s phone, the amount of data can be strongly reduced. This allows for the watch to only have two pages. This would eventually make the effort of going to a next and/ or previous page less applicable.
A suggestion for the design direction of this indication is illustrated in the figure on the right. It shows two arrows instead of one, as this is a more universal sign for “forward” or “next page”. Furthermore, the arrow starts blinking when you are scrolling over it, which draws the attention and invites the user to “keep on going”. It will be these small animations that contribute to a more convincing user cue.
* If there are only two pages, that page will look like this.
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page 1
Indication of the amount of pages.*
Scroll forward for next page
Indication of the fack that there is a second page (i.e. telling the user what to do).
page 2
After scrolling forward
page 3
**
At the moment of scrolling, you will see an animation of a flashing arrow. This will encourage the user to scroll further.**
Indication of scroll direction to go to previous page.
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Line drawings are used to indicate where the sensors should be connected (combined with the form of the box).
WELCOME When first opening the box, a short welcome message should draw the attention.
The watch will have a screen protection layer that also hints for the main interation of the ring.
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Packaging As the unboxing is the first experience with the product, it can determine the user’s first impression. This means that the package deserves some extra attention. Since the target group is first time users, their experiences with Polar should be positive right away . A good first experience will be beneficial for a long lasting customer relationship. Although the participants were very pleased with the package of the final design, there could be some improvements: Users found the overall appearance of the box guiding and clear when they first opened it. For example, it was clear that the shoelace helped in finding out what the sensors were. However, in their expressions it was shown that they still
were not a 100% clear. By including minimalistic line drawings of the context (e.g. chest, shoe, etc.) and the name of the components this insecurity can be strongly decreased. Furthermore, users had trouble to find out the correct orientation of the watch (which side is the top and which side is the bottom) as it was not turned on yet. This problem can be solved by including an orientation-dependent element, like text. In the figure on the left this was integrated in a screen protection layer on the watch, together with the first instructions of the main interaction. Once the watch is turned on, the user will never experience this problem again, as there will always be some information on the screen.
Further research The redesign process has proven itself to be most effective with help of user testing. The first step would be to evaluate the interfaces with use of paper prototyping. Hereafter, a functioning prototype should be made, that can be evaluated. This includes all the electronics that have been described above.
After the first prototype, some final changes can be made, and a 1 on 1 high fidelity prototype can be made. When the watch gets positive results from all this testing, it is time to take it into production.
At this point, the thickness is not yet of a huge influence. The guidelines from user test 1 and user test 2 of this report can be used for the next user tests as well. Similar testing and evaluation will help to optimally compare and validate the results.
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