Design Guidelines for Comfort and Usability
4/8/2010
The following factors influence the comfort and usability factor in a device.
Grip and Slip
The hardware design should be such that the device is easy to hold and will not slip out of the hand readily. Some forms are inherently more challenging. Candy bar designs in particular should pay attention to allowing enough grip because their linear surfaces generally are easier to drop than other designs. Clam or flip architecture generally poses fewer problems in this area. Note that transformer forms, such as rotators or sliders in use mode, can be very similar to candy bar forms.
Natural Placement
When the device is in use for scenarios that do not include using a headset or other hands–free peripheral, the design should include affordances that clearly signal to the user the optimal placement of the device for best audio performance. Microphone holes and perforations, as well as hearing holes or perforations, should be visually identifiable. Ideally, one or both will also be tactilely identifiable as well, eliminating the need to continually readjust position on the ear or by the mouth for best audio performance.
Moving and Removing
Consider the implications of removing the device out of a pocket, a handbag, or a backpack. This becomes a bigger challenge as devices get smaller, and as their design gets more compact. Hardware designers should consider the move-remove cycle that all devices undergo, which can be many times a day. Many devices are difficult to remove from pockets and bags, so designers should consider forms and finishes that support this. Many devices include a tether anchor for attaching string loops or bobbles.
Internal Antenna Placement
Antenna performance can vary significantly according to where hands or other body parts are in relation to the antenna. Consider how users will hold and use the device, and the likelihood of their blocking reception, when designing the antenna and its location.