ilia
Includesign, 2021 -ongoing
OVERVIEW
Includesign created the LapSnap, the basket that sits and is safely secured on one's lap, to make grocery shopping and other activities involving carrying items easier and more comfortable for wheelchair users.
At inclu, I've worked on making a more accessible version of the LapSnap with and for users with more limited upper hand mobility.
THE ORIGINAL DESIGN
THE PROBLEM
After the LapSnap was launched, we realized that it is not as accessible to wheelchair users who have more limited hand dexterity: a few individuals expressed that they were unable to use all of the features of the LapSnap making the product uncomofrtable or hard to use for them.
USER INSIGHTS
Feedback on LapSnap
Ideation
Prototype testing by users
User Interviews
Prototyping
Final solution
1
People with limited hand dexterity have trouble reaching in the tight and high pockets to grab items that might be in the bottom.
Visibility is also important: it is not clear where the pockets start because they are the same color as the bag.
2
Some individuals with limited finger dexterity commented that grabbing and pinching movements are hard or impossible to perform. The pinching movement require to open these up is difficult for those with limited finger dexterity.
"I can use parachute clips but it's getting harder. Neuropathy makes it hard to know where to squeeze."
3
Pulling up the metal brackets to open up the LapSnap requires finger strength that not all users have.
"I worry about my ability to grip the frame to expand the LapSnap."
4
Bringing their arms behind their back is difficult for some, and it often makes the process of securing the LapSnap around their waist impossible.
"Reaching behind is really hard for me."
How might make the LapSnap more comfortable and usable for users who are unable to perform pinching grabbing, and reaching movements easily?
ALTERATIONS BASED ON USER FEEDBACK
Feedback on LapSnap
Ideation
Prototype testing by users
User Interviews
Prototyping
Final solution
PROTOTYPING
Feedback on LapSnap
Ideation
Prototype testing by users
User Interviews
Prototyping
Final solution
KEY TAKEWAYS AND FINAL SOLUTION
Feedback on LapSnap
Ideation
Prototype testing by users
User Interviews
Prototyping
Final solution
Feedback from testers
Magnetic closures
Pockets
Loops
Extension
Some found them "pretty neat and functional"
others still had trouble with using them, as it was hard for them to align them so that they can clasp together.
All users found the pockets useful, and liked the shortened pockets in the front.
some preferred the side pockets that were added on the inside of the prototype.
but
but
Were very useful and worked well
Some didn't use it and others found it hard to pass strap through.
Feedback on LapSnap
Ideation
Prototype testing by users
User Interviews
Prototyping
Final solution
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The most important insight I got from this process was that every individual had different preferences and needs and so the ideal solution had to be customizable to the individual.
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For this reason, our final solution included creating this page in includesign's website, offering a consultation for users who want adapted or customized LapSnaps that are more accessible to their personal needs. Showing suggestions and examples of what worked for others, includesign invites users to co-design their new LapSnap according to what features work best for them.
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Check it out here!