Overview

I resolved minor maintenance issues with the current usability lab. Additionally, I researched different technological setups for the development of a versatile second usability lab.

Challenge

I transitioned into the role of managing the lab in the R&D building because the previous coworker in charge relocated to the Boston Landing site.

The current usability lab existed for over 10 years and needed some minor maintenance work. One of the microphones makes a squealing noise in the observation room, which can temporarily be muted to silence the squealing. However, the noise was still audible in the video recordings. There was also a speaker that emits static noises. 

A new usability lab was also being built in the R&D building. So far, our team used the Noldus system to observe participants, which includes data analysis software and audio and video equipment. Since the team did not use a majority of its capabilities in addition to the system being expensive, I looked into alternative lab setups. 

Process

Current Lab Maintenance

I scheduled several internal IT personnel to take a look at the camera and speaker issue before determining that Noldus should further identify and resolve the technical issues. I reached out to our Noldus representatives and scheduled a date for them to visit onsite. Prior to the visit, I was receiving instructions from their IT support to further identify the issue if possible. 

During the visit itself, the Noldus representatives could not  resolve the issues. However, they identified that the issues were not related to the microphone or speaker.

New Lab Development

The visit from the representatives of Noldus was also a visit to discuss the cost and potential for Noldus to be installed in the second lab. My colleagues attended this part of the visit in order to understand how Noldus could address the team’s needs and ask any questions that they may have.

Additionally, I have researched different alternatives to the Noldus system. After brainstorming with my colleagues and reviewing articles regarding this subject, we looked into a combination of some webcams, video recording software, and a software that allowed us to broadcast study sessions to remote stakeholders.

Outcomes

Current Lab Maintenance

The representatives made a temporary fix by changing the settings so that the squealing noise will not be heard in the room or the video recording. I followed up with Noldus in order to completely resolve the issue.

New Lab Development

The team had a better understanding of what Noldus had to offer based on the team’s needs. I tested out alternative lab solutions that looked promising. Ultimately, an alternative solution was chosen based on the needs of the team and cost of the solution.