At BlackHägen Design, we specialize in user-centric design, and our research and development processes require that we interact extensively with the healthcare community. Therefore, we provide a clinical liaison to ensure optimal fidelity in collaborating between our team, commercial partners, and the healthcare ecosystem.
The two most common engagements with the healthcare community are contextual inquiry (sometimes call ethnography) and usability evaluations. BlackHägen Design has an expert team of human factors engineers and usability specialists specifically trained for observations in clinical environments. In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, we are sensitive to your organization’s guidelines and follow them precisely. In addition, HIPAA and facility-specific protocols are also paramount to our methods.
A Contextual Inquiry (CI) visit typically involves passively observing HCPs going about a routine workflow or procedure with a focus on ergonomics and device safety. We intentionally do not want to interrupt the natural behavior or distract them with questions. We have no interest in patient information, clinical outcomes, or performance metrics.
Usability Evaluations are conducted in our lab, and we can probe deeply into the questions required. During these activities, the HCP evaluates prototypes for ease of use or validates final designs for safety and efficacy. Their valuable input could be key to changes or innovation that may benefit countless other healthcare providers and patients worldwide.
In return for partnering with us on a project, we often share insights discovered that are relevant and beneficial to your organization from the CI or Honoria for the Usability Evaluations. References are available upon request.
