UX/UI
How to redesign interactions for the interval training mode of Spartan smart watch while considering the needs of experience-seeking athlete?
01 Building understanding of experience-seeking user and re-defining persona & user journey
Various methods including online interviews, try-it-yourself, and observation were used. Insights were gathered regarding user behaviour, sports habits, routines, experience, and challenges of current interaction design. Based on research findings, a user persona was developed regarding interval training. It demonstrates the core user needs, motivations, and type of data and interaction to provide according to each stage of interval training.
02 Creating concept, design principles, and designing interactions
Research finding also brings the opportunity to new concept idea by comparing the characteristics between the Spartan watch and the true meaning of coach. The watch should also be a motivator, a recorder, and an observer and adjust to the user's lifestyle for improving performance. The spartan watch covers some parts of coach attribution but not all of them. Before designing interactions, 7 principles were created to guide interaction design. Interval coach mode allows users to access interval training in a more simple way by just tapping the toggle button displayed on each relevant exercise. Inside this mode, they can simply create or modify their own interval routines right into the watch without previous use of other devices. Besides, this mode motivates users to improve their performance to best fit into their adventure by showing their progression and competitive data compared to the records of other training group members. During interval training, it utilizes the full potential of the input & output system of the Spartan smartwatch for better interactions. For example, colour-coded heart rate which is one of the most important data helps users adjust exercise intensity just by taking a glimpse.
03 usability test and iteration.
To validate the concept and interactions, user testing was conducted. There was a following iteration after user testing.
Interval training is not an option! It is a mode!
This concept motivates users and adjusts to the user's lifestyle. Its interaction and interface maximize the use of input & output system. Here are 7 key features of the concept. You can also check the video of our prototype.
