Otoscan Handheld Ear Scanner
Led the user interface design for the Otoscan, a handheld ear scanner for making perfectly fitting hearing aids.
The Problem
In order to create hearing aids, audiologists often rely on the use of silicone impressions to create a 3D model of the ear canal. However, silicone often results in distortions of the ear canal due to the silicone changing the shape of the canal during fittings. This results in high return rates, canal abrasions and lack of adoption by patients. As SVP Cognitive Research for United Sciences, a start-up funded by GN Otometrics, Amy led the development of the user interface for the world's first digital ear scanner using laser technology to accurately create a 3D representation of the surface of the ear canal.
The Approach
Initially FreshTracksHX (formerly StoneUX) was engaged to help United Sciences improve the UX of their scanner. Amy introduced user-centered design to the company and developed a User Panel of audiologists who gave feedback on product usability and design throughout development. After 6 months of consulting, Amy was hired as SVP Cognitive Research, where she
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observed audiologists in their daily routine and process for taking silicone impressions,
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conducted iterative user testing with audiologists,
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worked with industrial designers to improve physical design driven by user testing observations,
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designed both the scanner touchscreen UI and desktop ordering application for sending scans to the hearing aid manufacturer.
The Result
Otometrics commercialized the Otoscan scanner, which is now available to audiologists worldwide. Lars Bladt Rasmussen, director, global upstream marketing, Otometrics summarized the accomplishment: "In field trials among clinicians, nearly every patient scanned using Otoscan rated the experience exciting and interesting. What’s more, clinicians scanning their patients with Otoscan find the solution to be an excellent way to turn, what is today a passive delivery system in the form of silicone impressions, into an effective sales and counseling tool that can polish their professional profile, strengthen patient relationships, and boost efficiency throughout their clinic.” Quote from the Hearing Review article Otometrics Unveils Otoscan 3D Device at AAA 2018.
IMPROVING THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE THROUGH STRATEGIC USER RESEARCH
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