Presentation
A Shared Foundation: Common Usability Principles for Diverse Ultrasound Modalities
SessionPoster Session 1
DescriptionThis study presents a comprehensive synthesis of human factors and usability learnings across the spectrum of ultrasound modalities. The focus is on identifying and exploring the common usability principles that transcend different clinical applications, while also acknowledging and detailing the critical differences that demand tailored design considerations. The core application of this research is to directly inform the design and development of safer, more intuitive, and effective ultrasound products, ultimately improving clinical workflow and patient outcomes.
Ultrasound technology has evolved from a primary diagnostic imaging tool into a versatile platform for intervention and treatment. Despite this expansion, human factors engineering and usability testing have historically been conducted in modality-specific silos. This siloed approach often overlooks critical, transferable insights that could prevent common errors and enhance the user experience across the entire product ecosystem. Our background research highlights the limitations of this traditional methodology and the pressing need for a more holistic, cross-functional perspective on usability. By analyzing data and observations from a wide range of studies—from diagnostic imaging to focused ultrasound therapy—we have uncovered a valuable "shared foundation" of usability principles.
The presentation will provide a structured overview of our key findings, contrasting usability challenges and successes across diagnostic, interventional, and therapeutic ultrasound. We will use real-world case studies and usability data to illustrate how common design patterns, interface layouts, and interaction models can either facilitate or hinder user performance, regardless of the specific modality. The talk will then delve into the nuances, identifying where subtle differences in clinical context, cognitive load, and required precision necessitate unique design solutions. The discussion will include actionable takeaways for designers, engineers, and clinical stakeholders on how to apply these cross-modal principles and considerations to their own projects.
The central message of this presentation is that a proactive, unified approach to human factors in ultrasound is not just a best practice, but a critical imperative for patient safety. The takeaway is the powerful realization that while the clinical goals of different ultrasound modalities may vary, the foundational principles of good usability—such as cognitive load management, intuitive navigation, and clear visual feedback—remain constant. The audience will leave with a framework for identifying commonalities and anticipating differences, empowering them to break down development silos and collaborate on a truly cohesive and user-centric product portfolio. This proactive strategy will lead to more robust, reliable, and user-friendly medical devices, reducing the risk of error and ensuring the highest level of care.
Ultrasound technology has evolved from a primary diagnostic imaging tool into a versatile platform for intervention and treatment. Despite this expansion, human factors engineering and usability testing have historically been conducted in modality-specific silos. This siloed approach often overlooks critical, transferable insights that could prevent common errors and enhance the user experience across the entire product ecosystem. Our background research highlights the limitations of this traditional methodology and the pressing need for a more holistic, cross-functional perspective on usability. By analyzing data and observations from a wide range of studies—from diagnostic imaging to focused ultrasound therapy—we have uncovered a valuable "shared foundation" of usability principles.
The presentation will provide a structured overview of our key findings, contrasting usability challenges and successes across diagnostic, interventional, and therapeutic ultrasound. We will use real-world case studies and usability data to illustrate how common design patterns, interface layouts, and interaction models can either facilitate or hinder user performance, regardless of the specific modality. The talk will then delve into the nuances, identifying where subtle differences in clinical context, cognitive load, and required precision necessitate unique design solutions. The discussion will include actionable takeaways for designers, engineers, and clinical stakeholders on how to apply these cross-modal principles and considerations to their own projects.
The central message of this presentation is that a proactive, unified approach to human factors in ultrasound is not just a best practice, but a critical imperative for patient safety. The takeaway is the powerful realization that while the clinical goals of different ultrasound modalities may vary, the foundational principles of good usability—such as cognitive load management, intuitive navigation, and clear visual feedback—remain constant. The audience will leave with a framework for identifying commonalities and anticipating differences, empowering them to break down development silos and collaborate on a truly cohesive and user-centric product portfolio. This proactive strategy will lead to more robust, reliable, and user-friendly medical devices, reducing the risk of error and ensuring the highest level of care.
Event Type
Poster Presentation
TimeMonday, March 234:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
LocationRhinelander Gallery
Medical and Drug Delivery Devices