Final year project
Improving the user experience of self-testing for HIV in men who… [Read more]
HIV self testing device
Testing for HIV is a vital precaution in sexually active men who have sex with men. The recommended test frequency for HIV is every three to six months, however, this is rarely adhered to for a number of reasons, primarily fear of exposure to stigma and discrimination. Current at-home test kits lack dignity, can be confusing, sometimes misleading and offer zero after-support. This product, app and service guides the user through the human-friendly process and provides reliable results, creating a sense of comfort and confidence.
Companion app
The companion app allows for easy pairing with the testing device by scanning in a 6-digit unique code generated by the dot matrix display.
As both hands are occupied during the testing process, users would not be able to press the 'next' button in order to navigate the instructions; having a timer-based instruction guide allows for a hands-free experience of the app.
The app dashboard features an adapting card that will recommend when to test and will also display timers and test results. This card will also act as a method of entering the post-test chat with a healthcare specialist. Below this card, is device management, where users can check the battery life, when their next test date is, how many Single Test Units they have remaining and when their next delivery will be.
Regardless of the test result, the companion app provides real time after support. It also helps the user book a follow-up test, share results with their GP and review test history. If managing a positive status, users will also be able to track their viral load through the device and app in order to determine the efficacy of their antiretroviral therapy.
Packaging
The packaging is minimal and clean to allude to the product's purpose as a medical device. There is little text and descriptive cues to help maintain the user's discretion and privacy.
Charging case
To ensure the user's discretion, the testing device comes with a minimal case that not only safely stores the device but also charges the device through a USB-C cable and adapter. Upon opening the case, the testing device automatically presents the user with a greeting message. There is also an optional 'Ghost Mode' that prevents any information (greetings, timers, results) displaying on the device.
Testing area
The 'finger channel' is connected to a custom lancet that interfaces with a solenoid plunger housed within the device body. The solenoid plunger provides a less painful experience compared to the standard lancing mechanisms available.
The 'blood well' features a capillary action tube that carries the blood to the biosensor, this will analyse the blood sample and feed the information to the dot matrix display for displaying the timer/result. Results will always be displayed as 'Negative' or 'Reactive', the use of positive in an at-home test is incorrect due to potential 'false-positives'.
Single test unit packaging
As part of the subscription, the single test unit is delivered to the user every 3-6 months, this is based upon the NHS guidance on testing frequency for sexually active men who have sex with men. To ensure hygiene the units can only be used once but to make the service more sustainable, single test units can be returned to the manufacturer for safe disposal and responsible recycling.
Connecting the single test unit
Given the limited time that the single test unit is in use, the method of connecting them to the device is very simple. Over-complicating the mechanism of joining/attachment would have resulted in material waste and cost.
3D print
The final 3D print of the device to assess the ergonomics and usability of the device in its intended context of use.
Roshan Zavery
I am a socially aware individual that looks to elevate society in an intelligent and beautiful way.
Through the duration of my degree, I have found that I have an affinity towards user experience design which led me to securing a year-long placement at IBM as a UX & Visual Designer. Through my time at IBM I built up a repertoire of user research skills and an ability to translate this information into considered interfaces with pixel precision.
Coming from a family of health professionals, I have developed a keen interest in using design to improve the mental and physical well-being of people. Through my tenure at Apple as a Specialist, I have witnessed the delight in users when hardware and software seamlessly work together, this is also a realm I would love to be a part of.
At the heart of everything I do is the practice of inclusivity, the celebration of self-expression and diversity and I look to continue working in organisations that embody such values.
Final year project
Improving the user experience of self-testing for HIV in men who have sex with men.
Awards
In May 2017, I was awarded a 'Bronze Award' for a packaging brief set by RPC under the national competition, The Student Starpack Awards. I designed a sustainable Indian takeaway pack that had the cuisine's traditional method of eating at its core, the thali. Their feedback included: "The good quality model shows the principle very well. The visually excellent development boards tell a story and explain the thinking and details well. The judges agreed this is a great project, well presented.".
In November 2017, I participated in a one day event held at Loughborough University where we partnered with Business Masters students from Hong Kong University. They were our clients and in groups of five we were given a brief where we had to design a user experience for a start up business that they had been developing as part of their course. Our group was awarded with 'Best Concept'.
In March 2019, my lead at IBM held an internal competition between our sub-domain’s global design team. The brief of the competition was to graphically represent three new initiatives for our internal employee group of 300+ people. My promotional materials won the competition.
In June 2019, I was awarded the 'IBM Advancing Accessibility' credential for undertaking training materials related to designing more accessible and inclusive products.
'20 Diploma in Professional Studies - I was awarded a diploma for engaging with over 45 weeks of experience and writing a dissertation.
Experience
For the duration of my degree, I also worked at Apple as a Specialist. My time at Apple has accelerated my the development of my interpersonal skills through working with a team of over 100 people of different roles/seniority as well as engaging with thousands of customers from different backgrounds. Working in a fast paced and pressured environment, where technology is always advancing, honed my adaptability to change. Managing my studies alongside a role within a company that delivers excellence, meant that my time management and organisation had to be precise and meticulous. Furthermore, Apple taught me the ability to drive a business focus, the embodiment of meaningful values and the importance of protecting company secrecy.
Whilst living in London on placement year, I became a mentor at the non-profit organisation, Design Club. Design Club was held once a month at The Science Museum, London, and my work here was voluntary. During each session mentors teach children a simplified version of the 'Design Thinking' process from creating personas to wireframing, and then moving towards digital prototyping.
Whilst on placement in London, I was invited by Facebook to a ‘Design Jam’ where we spent a day designing privacy into conceptual applications. This was an amazing, intense challenge. In my spare time, I attended a number of ‘Meetups’ from the likes of Babylon Health and IDEO, where they discussed their design philosophies and practices.
Placements
August 2018 - August 2019
UX/UI Designer, IBM