Initial User Experience Research Articles

Design and initial user experience of a computer-based decision-support tool to improve safety of chemotherapy delivery

Design and initial user experience of a computer-based decision-support tool to improve safety of chemotherapy delivery

Initial Validity and User Experience of a Dynamic Assessment of Occupational Performance for Transitional Age Youth

Background: The Double OT (DOT) assessment is occupation-based and dynamic, designed with a client-centered format requiring skill demonstration. It was developed to support youth transitioning into the workplace. This research intended to analyze initial validity and users’ experience.

A Conceptual Design Specification Based on User Aesthetic Information Analysis and Product Functional Reasoning

User satisfaction with a product plays a direct role in the purchasing decisions. With the enrichment of material life and the growth of individual requirements, this satisfaction is derived from the requirement for functionality to aesthetics. Conventional product design methods normally focus on achieving the required functions where its design specifications are mainly related to certain functional or usability requirements. In recent years, researchers have made efforts to develop methods for supporting aesthetic design activities during the product conceptual design phase. However, most of these methods hardly consider product aesthetics or the consumers’ emotional needs. Therefore, this study proposed a user-driven conceptual design specification integrating functional reasoning with aesthetic information analysis. The method consisted of two tasks, the construction of a mapping model and the implementation of the mapping model. Firstly, the mapping model was constructed for capturing the relationships between initial design specifications and user experience (UX). Secondly, the proposed design specifications were selected, refined, and optimized based on the mapping model. A case study on digital camera design was carried out to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. The results showed that, compared with the initial design specification candidates, the UX was enhanced by applying the improved design specifications.

UnlockLearning – Investigating the Integration of Vocabulary Learning Tasks into the Smartphone Authentication Process

Abstract Frequent repetition of vocabulary is essential for effective language learning. To increase exposure to learning content, this work explores the integration of vocabulary tasks into the smartphone authentication process. We present the design and initial user experience evaluation of twelve prototypes, which explored three learning tasks and four common authentication types. In a three-week within-subject field study, we compared the most promising concept as mobile language learning (MLL) applications to two baselines: We designed a novel (1) UnlockApp that presents a vocabulary task with each authentication event, nudging users towards short frequent learning session. We compare it with a (2) NotificationApp that displays vocabulary tasks in a push notification in the status bar, which is always visible but learning needs to be user-initiated, and a (3) StandardApp that requires users to start in-app learning actively. Our study is the first to directly compare these embedding concepts for MLL, showing that integrating vocabulary learning into everyday smartphone interactions via UnlockApp and NotificationApp increases the number of answers. However, users show individual subjective preferences. Based on our results, we discuss the trade-off between higher content exposure and disturbance, and the related challenges and opportunities of embedding learning seamlessly into everyday mobile interactions.

Initial Clinical Experience With ClearPoint SmartFrame Array–Aided Stereotactic Procedures

The ClearPoint SmartFrame Array (ClearPoint Neuro, Inc., Solana Beach, CA) system consists of a magnetic resonance imaging compatible frame supported by a customized neuro navigation software. This system received U.S. Food and Drug Administrationclearance for clinical use in January 2021. Our objective was to report initial safety data and user experience of SmartFrame Array-supported stereotactic procedures. We prospectively followed the first 10 consecutive patients who underwent stereotactic procedures supported by SmartFrame Array. Clinical and procedural data were recorded and compared to data obtained from prior cases with SmartFrame XG. Ten patients underwent stereotactic needle biopsy, stereotactic laser ablation (SLA), or combined biopsy/SLA procedures. For needle biopsies (n= 9), the average maximal diameter of the contrast-enhancing target lesion was 9.9 ± 2.8 mm. The radial error of stereotaxis was less than 2 mm. Definitive diagnosis was achieved in all cases. For procedures involving SLA (n= 5), 100% of the contrast-enhancing lesion was ablated. All patients were discharged home by postoperative day 2. There were no 30-day readmissions, morbidity, or mortality. The average stereotaxis time for the SmartFrame Array-aided single trajectory procedure was 80 ± 9.5 minutes, which compared favorably to that required for the earlier generation SmartFrame XG frame (111.5 ± 16.5 minutes; P < 0.01). The unique Array design supported stereotactic procedures that cannot be easily achieved with the previous SmartFrame XG frame. The SmartFrame Array system offers a more rigid and compact build to enhance procedural efficiency while maintaining accuracy and safety. The design supports multi-trajectory stereotaxis, allowing novel clinical applications.

Smartphone application for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: an initial acceptability and user experience evaluation

BackgroundAnorexia Nervosa (AN) is a key target for E-Health programs considering the many barriers hindering patients’ access to care and the disorder’s severity. Although these programs have become more common and effective, they often have low adherence, especially among youth. This can hinder their implementation and effectiveness in real-world settings. User experience partly overlaps with the acceptability field and may provide insight into factors affecting adherence and adoption of E-Health programs. This study aimed to explore early acceptability and user experience of a companion app prototype for adolescents with AN using user-centered design methods.MethodsWe developed a prototype containing self-help material and emotions and behaviors evaluation and management features. Then we conducted a mixed evaluation combining semi structured focus group interviews and questionnaires in a clinician group and an AN patient group. We analyzed data using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics.ResultsThe app’s overall appeal was adequate. The user experience questionnaire revealed the weakest dimensions, including novelty, dependability, and efficiency versus stimulation (i.e., ability to induce motivation to use the product) and perspicuity (i.e., easy to understand, to get familiar with). The qualitative data analysis revealed three central axes: acceptability, features, and use. We identified acceptability barriers and facilitators such as the importance of design and customization, especially for adolescents. Psychoeducation was a major feature for participants, as patients highlighted the difficulties they encountered when seeking disorders-related information.ConclusionsThis study shows the importance of including users in the different stages of an e-health intervention development, in order to identify their needs, general use and compliance patterns, to improve adherence and adoption of the program and its effectiveness.

Students’ Experiences of 2D and 360° Videos With or Without a Low-Cost VR Headset: An Experimental Study in Higher Education

Aim/Purpose: This case study examines students’ affective responses to and relationships with two-dimensional (2D) and 360° videos that were experienced with or without low-cost virtual reality (VR) headsets. Background: The prior research on low-cost VR technology is scant. Schools and universities are not financially able to purchase tens or hundreds of expensive inbuilt VR headsets. Therefore, we recommend an alternative, low-cost solution. Methodology: We conducted the experiment with students’ (N=100) responses to videos and VR technologies used in a higher education setting. We also applied a quantitative research approach examined in light of media richness and affective experience theories. Contribution: This study provides evidence of the integral role that VR technologies and 360° video content play, because using low-cost VR headsets potentially decreases the initial affective experiences of 360° videos among students. Although VR headsets improve media richness, they might simultaneously weaken students’ overall affective experiences if they experience usability challenges. Findings: The results showed that using low-cost VR headsets decreased positive user experiences when they were watching 360° videos. The 360° video experience was noted to be better without low-cost VR headsets. Low-cost VR headsets with a smartphone and 360° videos were found to be complicated to set up and use among first-time users. However, 360° videos created a more positive affect than did 2D videos. We also found that the positive affect of videos enhanced the social sharing intention. Recommendations for Practitioners: Educational institutes and teachers with limited financial budgets need to plan and manage courses that increases their need to adopt low-cost VR headsets. However, a poor initial user experience of low-cost VR technology usability might create negative student attitudes, which might hinder VR’s adoption rate in higher education. Recommendation for Researchers: This study provides a new understanding about students’ affective experiences of 2D videos and 360° videos with and without low-cost VR headsets. The results show that positive user experiences of 2D and 360° videos enhance students’ interest in sharing and collaboration in digital learning environments. Impact on Society: The results help educators to predict possible usability challenges in selecting the proper rich media for different learning situations. Additionally, the results assist educators to design VR assisted courses that motivate students. Future Research: The experimental comparison of different VR solutions and traditional learning technologies merits further examination. Additionally, more research is needed to determine the relationship of VR technologies, video content and learning methods, because technological features and content are tightly integrated in VR.

모바일뱅킹 서비스의 초기 사용자 경험에 대한 융합적 연구

모바일뱅킹 서비스의 초기 사용자 경험에 대한 융합적 연구

Assessment of Accuracy and Usability of a Fee Estimator for Ambulatory Care in an Integrated Health Care Delivery Network

Given increased enrollment in high-deductible health insurance plans and mandates from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, individualized price transparency tools are needed. To assess accuracy and initial user experience of a cost estimation tool for ambulatory procedures delivered via an online patient portal and informed by real-time data feeds from third-party payers. This quality improvement study included patients aged 18 years and older at an integrated health care system in Northern California. Data from patients who used the cost estimator tool from August 21, 2018, to April 9, 2019, and who had matching explanation of benefits statements were used to assess accuracy of the tool. User experience was assessed with a brief survey completed online or via postal mail. Data were analyzed from April 15, 2019, to October 11, 2019. Tool accuracy and user experience and satisfaction. As of April 30, 2019, 4610 estimates (3569 [77.4%] via internet; 1041 [22.6%] via telephone) were produced using the cost estimator tool. Among 342 individuals who had an estimate and a matching explanation of benefits statement, 287 estimates (83.9%) were accurate. All 342 individuals with an estimate and an explanation of benefits statement were invited to participate in a user survey, and 125 individuals completed the survey (36.5% response rate). Survey respondents included 92 (73.6%) women, 72 (57.6%) non-Hispanic white participants , 91 participants (72.8%) with a college degree or higher, and 55 participants (44.0%) with an income of $100 000 per year or higher. Mean (SD) age was 46.8 (13.1) years. Ninety-nine participants (79.2%) found the tool easy to use, 109 participants (87.2%) would use it again, and 100 participants (80.0%) would recommend it to others. Seven participants (5.6%) reported contacting a clinician about the estimate, and 12 participants (9.6%) changed their decision based on the estimate. This quality improvement study is the first report of an online cost estimator in an integrated health care delivery network. The findings suggest that the tool, informed by real-time data feeds from third-party payers, was easy to use and provided accurate results. Increasing the number of searchable services and sharing best practices with other health care systems who share the same portal platform are the next steps for the tool.

A Framework for Improving the Engagement of Medical Practitioners in an E-Training Platform for Tuberculosis Care and Prevention

We propose a new framework to improve the engagement of medical practitioners in a planned e-training platform for the successful identification and effective management of presumptive cases of tuberculosis (TB) in Pakistan. Our work is aligned with the World Health Organization’s TB-DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment Short-course) strategy for promoting the effective management of tuberculosis. We start by presenting previous work done at Mercy Corps Pakistan for training medical practitioners, then present the results of a recent survey we administered to a random sample of medical practitioners in Pakistan to learn about their requirements and readiness to embrace a new e-training platform and methodology. Informed by feedback from the survey, we formulated a detailed requirement analysis of the five key learning areas (or phases) that we believe are fundamental to the success of a TB e-training platform. Moreover, survey results revealed that an on-spot, on-demand, and competency-based learning tool can potentially improve the engagement of medical practitioners in the process. Building on the insights gained from the survey, we finally describe our initial UX (user experience) prototypes for phase 1, which corresponds to the identification of presumptive tuberculosis cases.

Preventing the Forgotten Ureteral Stent by Using a Mobile Point-of-Care Application.

The forgotten ureteral stent (FUS) can lead to patient morbidity. To date, tracking ureteral stents is a cumbersome task, given their high frequency of insertion and variable indwelling times. To simplify this process, an application was developed to track patients with indwelling ureteral stents. We report our initial user experience and clinical outcomes with this application. Ureteral Stent Tracker™ (UST) is a secure, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA)-compliant, cloud-based point-of-care application. It is designed for logging stent insertion, scheduling the date of anticipated stent extraction, and confirming stent removal. It is accessible via a mobile phone application or web browser interface. We consecutively enrolled all patients who underwent ureteral stent insertion for any indication by two urologists from January 10, 2015, to October 10, 2016. A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients included in the UST database. Data extracted included patient demographics, diagnosis, procedure, and stent characteristics. A total of 115 patients were included with a mean age of 52.4 years; 54% (62/115) were male and 58% (67/115) were Caucasian. This cohort represented 146 ureteral stent care plans with 23 patients (23/115; 20%) having more than one care plan during the study period. The most common procedure performed was ureteroscopy (70/146; 48%) for a diagnosis of nephrolithiasis (108/146; 74%). The median indwelling ureteral stent time was 14 days (interquartile range: 7-45 days). A total of three patients (3/115; 3%) did not return for their scheduled extraction, but were identified only through the application. Each patient was contacted, resulting in effective removal of all three stents in the office. Tracking of ureteral stents is critical to prevent the patient safety issue of the FUS. The UST is a secure, HIPPA-compliant, cloud-based application, which once incorporated into the workflow of a urologic practice can prevent the FUS.

Haptic feedback improves surgeons' user experience and fracture reduction in facial trauma simulation.

Computer-assisted surgical (CAS) planning tools are available for craniofacial surgery, but are usually based on computer-aided design (CAD) tools that lack the ability to detect the collision of virtual objects (i.e., fractured bone segments). We developed a CAS system featuring a sense of touch (haptic) that enables surgeons to physically interact with individual, patient-specific anatomy and immerse in a three-dimensional virtual environment. In this study, we evaluated initial user experience with our novel system compared to an existing CAD system. Ten surgery resident trainees received a brief verbal introduction to both the haptic and CAD systems. Users simulated mandibular fracture reduction in three clinical cases within a 15 min time limit for each system and completed a questionnaire to assess their subjective experience. We compared standard landmarks and linear and angular measurements between the simulated results and the actual surgical outcome and found that haptic simulation results were not significantly different from actual postoperative outcomes. In contrast, CAD results significantly differed from both the haptic simulation and actual postoperative results. In addition to enabling a more accurate fracture repair, the haptic system provided a better user experience than the CAD system in terms of intuitiveness and self-reported quality of repair.

Health Heritage©, a Web-Based Tool for the Collection and Assessment of Family Health History: Initial User Experience and Analytic Validity

A detailed family health history is currently the most potentially useful tool for diagnosis and risk assessment in clinical genetics. We developed and evaluated the usability and analytic validity of a patient-driven web-based family health history collection and analysis tool. Health Heritage^© guides users through the collection of their family health history by relative, generates a pedigree, completes risk assessment, stratification, and recommendations for 89 conditions. We compared the performance of Health Heritage to that of Usual Care using a nonrandomized cohort trial of 109 volunteers. We contrasted the completeness and sensitivity of family health history collection and risk assessments derived from Health Heritage and Usual Care to those obtained by genetic counselors and genetic assessment teams. Nearly half (42%) of the Health Heritage participants reported discovery of health risks; 63% found the information easy to understand and 56% indicated it would change their health behavior. Health Heritage consistently outperformed Usual Care in the completeness and accuracy of family health history collection, identifying 60% of the elevated risk conditions specified by the genetic team versus 24% identified by Usual Care. Health Heritage also had greater sensitivity than Usual Care when comparing the identification of risks. These results suggest a strong role for automated family health history collection and risk assessment and underscore the potential of these data to serve as the foundation for comprehensive, cost-effective personalized genomic medicine.

'MotorcycleSim': An Evaluation of Rider Interaction with an Innovative Motorcycle Simulator

This paper describes a user-centred design process that has been used to develop an innovative simulator for research into motorcycle ergonomics and rider human factors. Building on initial user requirements and user experience elicitation exercises, an evaluation was conducted to investigate specific issues associated with simulator fidelity. An experimental approach was employed to examine the physical and functional fidelity of the simulator. Using different steering and visual feedback configurations, a battery of objective and subjective dependent variables were analysed including: user perceptions and preferences, rider performance data, rider workload, rider comfort issues and the first evaluation of simulator sickness for a motorcycle simulator. The results indicated that across a number of measures, aspects of functional fidelity were considered more important than the physical fidelity of the simulator. This evaluation takes the development of the simulator a stage further and the paper provides recommendations for future improvements.

Exploring design options for interactive video with the Mnemovie hypervideo system

Mnemovie is an investigative hypervideo system for exploring design options for interactivity with digital motion picture files (video). The custom-designed software toolset is used to build a series of experimental interactive models from which three models were subsequently developed for initial user experience testing and evaluation. We compared interaction with each of the models across three groups of video file users, from expert to non-expert. Understanding participants’ preference for each model helps define the different dimensions of the actual user experience. We discuss how these findings and the subsequent development of persona scenarios can inform the design of hypervideo systems and the implications this has for interaction design.

Visualizing and interacting with hypermedia-based process-centric enterprise models

Interoperability and cross-fertilization of multiple hypermedia domains are relatively new concerns to the open hypermedia and structural computing community. Recent work in this area has explored integrated data models and component-based structural service architectures. This paper focuses on the user interface aspects relating to client applications of the structural services. It presents an integrative design of a graphical hypermedia user interface for hypermedia-based process-centric enterprise models. An enterprise model covers various important perspectives of an enterprise (such as processes, information, organization, and systems). In this paper, examples are given to show that these perspectives are presented better using a mixture of hypermedia structures found in several hypermedia domains. The visualization and interaction design for such hypermedia-based enterprise models integrates many features found in navigational, spatial, taxonomic, workflow and cooperative hypertext domains. A use case is provided to show that client applications based on this design allow users to see and interact with an enterprise model from multiple perspectives. In addition, some` initial user experience is also reported.