Individual project

Process: Double diamond

Methods: Semi-constructed interviews, PACT-analysis, heuristic evaluation, state transition map, and iterative prototyping with increasing resolution

The recent trend towards payment terminals that only have touch screens as a means of input is bad for accessibility. People with impaired vision prefer physical buttons, and since the payment terminal only ever does one job once it's been set up, a touch screen serves little purpose. But can the payment terminal be made more accessible, while at the same time improving it for everyone in the process?

PACT-analysis

State transition map

Low fidelity prototypes

I approach this challenge by using light as a signifier at each stage of interaction (LED strips + button LEDs). The terminal can then clearly communicate when it is asking for input, what kind of input it is asking for, and its system status — even if you have impaired vision. This is accomplished using three signifiers at almost every step (eg. scan-symbol, text, and light strip when it is asking for the card). This also allows for the removal of potential false signifiers, such as the buttons lighting up even though it is not asking for button input.