Managing Input During Assistive Technology Product Design

Abstract

Many different sources of input are available to assistive technology innovators during the course of designing products. However, there is little information on which ones may be most effective or how they may be efficiently utilized within the design process. The aim of this project was to compare how three types of input—from simulation tools, professional therapists, and end users—affect the final design when they are provided during the course of the design process. Eight design teams were recruited to independently design a working prototype of an assistive device while receiving a particular type of input. Twenty potential users were recruited to evaluate each of the devices with respect to effectiveness and satisfaction. The results indicate that in some cases each type of input can have a positive effect on end user evaluation. Issues related to how input may be affected by design concept selection, stakeholder recruitment, and timely delivery of input are discussed.

Keywords:

• design methods
• managing input
• product design
• simulation
• stakeholder input

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The author would like to thank all of the designers, users, evaluators, and professionals for their time and effort. This study was conducted as part of the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Workplace Accommodations, which is supported by Grant H133070026 from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, U.S. Department of Education. The opinions contained in this article are those of the grantee and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Department of Education.