| Prototype development |
Working from home arrangements affected technical development with reduced access to labs, workshops, fabrication facilities on NHS and University sites Supply and logistical delays: electronic components became unavailable or with lead times of up to a year and other consumables more time-consuming to source. Procurement issues necessitated several unplanned engineering re-designs to accommodate the shortages. Design of non-functional prototypes is informed by the parallel design development of the actual device. Delays in either design or usability sessions impact upon each other.
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Made and utilised “paperware” early on to demonstrate key concepts & created standardised video walk-throughs Team members utilised personal fabrication and high-performance computing facilities at home e.g., 3D printers, CAD modelling and simulation, industrial sewing machines and existing material swatches to create prototype functional models and arm-sleeves Team members with access to facilities undertook extra design work that would not usually have been their responsibility.
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| Preference and iterative usability testing of prototypes with end-users |
Face to face user research was not possible due to travel restrictions, social distancing and the vulnerability of stroke survivors and of some team members Online data collection potentially reduced diversity of patients and may have limited inclusion for those without internet access or digital capabilities. Meeting participant needs while meeting and working online Infection control measures to be addressed to enable patients to handle prototypes Online meetings lack the social aspect that many stroke survivors enjoy
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Online video platform such as MS Teams and Zoom were employed which enabled participants with internet access to join – who might otherwise might not have wished to attend a physical meeting due to fatigue or the stress of travel With participant consent, offered the opportunity to record and review usability sessions.
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| Staff resources, collaboration and team work |
Team members ill and / or isolating Availability of, and pressure on NHS colleagues as collaborators and participants Necessary prioritisation of other work activities to meet competing organisational or patient needs Team members home working and home schooling Absence of face to face team meetings and team working due to travel restrictions and social distancing measures Uncertainty and changing national and local guidelines
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Imbued a collective willingness to overcome adversity (often referred to in the UK as “Dunkirk spirit”). Team members went “the extra mile” to overcome difficulties. Made the most of the online facilities that were available Created bespoke demonstration videos, developed illustrated information sheets and aphasia-friendly versions of information provided.
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