MOD7

User Interviews

I conducted user interviews with 5 professional skiers and snowboarders to gain insights into their specific needs and concerns regarding goggles. Working with the team, we developed a script of 20 open-ended questions focused on understanding user experiences both in action and in downtime (e.g., in the cabin or during storage).

Key insights included:

• Safety Concerns: Several users expressed concerns about goggles falling off during crashes, emphasizing the need for a secure, stable fit.

• Contextual Needs: Users highlighted different requirements while actively skiing or snowboarding (e.g., clear FOV and comfort) versus when they were off the slopes (e.g., ease of storage and comfort when not in use).

These interviews were essential in guiding design improvements based on real-world user feedback.

Usability Testing

During usability testing, the team had significant concerns regarding the magnet mechanism used to snap the lens/goggle into place around the eyes and for storage at the top of the helmet. Ten participants completed multiple rounds of interacting with the goggles, including snapping the lens/goggle onto their face and securing it into the storage position. Key metrics measured included the number of errors, observed concerns, and perceived difficulties.

Issue 1: Snapping the Lens/Goggle While Wearing Snow Gloves

Initially, participants had no issues with snapping the lens/goggle into place. However, once I realized the users were not wearing snow gloves, which is typical in real-life scenarios, I had participants repeat the test with gloves on. This revealed a challenge: without a strap to guide the user, snapping the lens/goggle was significantly more difficult. Participants struggled with dropping or misaligning the lens/goggle.

Solution:
We suggested adding an affordance, such as a button, lip, or grip area on the lens/goggle, allowing users to better handle and secure the lens, even with gloves on. This would also help in removing the lens from the helmet.

Issue 2: Insufficient Seal Around the Face

The initial three levels of adjustment did not provide a sufficient seal or tight fit around the face. Previous research showed that some users prefer a very tight seal, which was not achieved with the original design. Additionally, the lack of auditory feedback made it difficult for users to know when the lens/goggle was properly adjusted to the face.

Solution:
We recommended implementing deeper magnet adjustments, which would provide a tighter fit and make the lens more secure in the event of a fall. Additionally, we suggested adding a louder, more noticeable clicking noise to provide auditory feedback, signaling to the user that the lens/goggle was correctly adjusted.

For more details on this project, please contact me.

lopezg7575@gmail.com