The DT-X7 series handheld terminal is CASIO’s latest product which fully integrates the Human-Centered Design (“HCD”) methodology. Analyzing “usability” objectively, CASIO claims to have created a device to meet the practical needs of users.
Handheld terminals are important information devices which enable logistics, retail and field service operators to connect goods and systems at the respective sites. They are loosely divided into three types: the “grip type” with a built-in bar code scanner for use in logistics and retailing, the “PDA type” for data input and output-focused tasks, and the “printer type” for use in issuing traffic and parking offense tickets and train tickets on-board, and reading public utility meters. However, the business orientation of handheld terminals has meant that their development has tended to focus on aspects which can be numerically analyzed, such as functions, dimensions and cost.
While ways to innovate the shape and positioning of keys to create user-friendly designs have been devised, there has been a virtual absence of objective design evaluation methods. This points out to a failure by manufacturers to adopt a design-oriented approach used in the development of “consumer devices”. The fact remains, however, that logistics operators in the warehouse and retail staff on the shop floor are the ones actually using handheld terminals and the usability of these devices can significantly impact upon operating efficiency.
CASIO has fully integrated the Human-Centered Design methodology into the development of a grip-type handheld terminal while objectively evaluating “usability” and “fatigue prevention” throughout the design process.
The DT-X7, launched in overseas markets in October, is the culmination of these efforts.At first glance, the DT-X7 resembles a multi-functional mobile phone. In fact, it shares a number of features with recent mobile phones including the positioning and colour coding of the keys and the clear resin finish around the screen. However, CASIO states that most of these similarities are simply the results of the design process.Koichi Sato of Design