Noveto
Hardware and software UX strategy and design and configuration.
CASE STUDY
Introduction
Noveto introduced i3DS™, an innovative audio technology that beams sound to create the immersive listening experience of headphones without the need for any physical device on the ears. When I joined the team, the business was uncertain about the potential market disruption of their product.
Bringing my expertise as a UX researcher, I helped Noveto identify possible users and industries where the Noveto speaker could serve as a viable alternative to traditional headphone sets. Through in-depth research, we established that the SoundBeamer could be potentially used for video conferencing, podcast listening, meditation, gaming, and home fitness.
Identifying Potential Users
The next step was to pinpoint a niche market of potential users. After identifying several personas, we focused intensively on one key group: high-level managers, primarily in tech companies. This target audience was crucial because their engagement could drive funding to further develop and refine the product. Additionally, this research led to valuable improvements in the user experience (UX) of the device.
Designing the Demo & Installation App
To ensure a seamless user experience, we drafted several user journeys:
Ordering and discovering the SoundBeamer
Unpacking and installing the SoundBeamer
Installation process via the mobile app
First-time beaming experience on mobile and tablet devices
I collaborated closely with the product owner, initiating the process with a workshop to gain a deep understanding of the product. Our first meeting involved a general assessment and brainstorming session, setting the foundation for refining the user experience.
Usability Report and Enhancements
The usability report provided key insights into improving interactions, usability, and overall efficiency of the product design. By analyzing the initial concept and observing user interactions, I gained a clearer picture of potential inefficiencies and bottlenecks. This enabled us to:
Identify problems preventing users from completing their objectives
Highlight areas of improvement in both design and overall product experience
Implement changes based on user feedback to enhance usability
Feedback, Iteration, and Product Testing
While the technical team worked on refining the product, I conducted usability testing on two versions of the SoundBeamer:
One configured via Bluetooth through a mobile device
One requiring a PC connection for installation
Based on technical requirements and user preferences, we chose to develop a mobile app solution. This decision streamlined the installation process and made the product more accessible.
Noveto IoT Mobile App Development
Parallel to product testing, we worked on optimizing the installation process to ensure it was:
Quick and intuitive
Clearly differentiated from standard speakers
A key challenge was explaining the concept of personal sound beaming. Users needed to be assured that only they could hear the sound. To address this, we introduced the "Field of Sound" concept: once a user exits this designated area, they can no longer hear the audio. This effectively demonstrated the product's unique value.
Wireframing and User Journey Refinement
Noveto's initial process flow was simplistic, missing key scenarios such as edge cases and unhappy paths. As a UX designer, I restructured the entire experience by:
Rewriting user journeys
Presenting a detailed storyboard outlining screen-by-screen interactions
Creating an interactive InVision document for collaborative feedback
Prototyping and Design Refinement
With the team aligned on the user journey and wireframes, I proposed two distinct app styles through a storyboard:
A techy and playful design
A high-end and sophisticated look
We opted for the second direction to appeal to a more mature audience, ensuring the app conveyed professionalism and quality. The prototypes were shared on InVision for review and feedback.
To maintain a cohesive aesthetic, Noveto commissioned a design agency to create SoundBeamer renders, which were integrated into the app. This ensured the visual consistency of the product.
Conclusion
Through research, usability testing, and iterative design, I played a key role in refining Noveto's SoundBeamer and its supporting applications. The insights gathered enabled Noveto to clearly define its market position, enhance the product's usability, and ultimately bring innovation to the audio technology industry.
