Design Locally: Validate Globally

Abstract

A process for developing the user interface and the industrial design for products intended for international markets is presented. The process was derived from lessons learned while developing a business telecommunications device. The device required an interface that was easier to use and a product design that would be attractive to worldwide business users. The design process was based on two iterations of user testing. The first iteration included 51 users from three major U.S. metropolitan areas; while the second had 294 users from four European cities, three U.S., and two Asian. The recommended process requires that multiple competing designs be presented to users for iterative validation and revision before selecting the final design. The competing designs increase the likelihood that cultural differences are met and the best design solution is achieved.