Methods of Human Factors Engineering, 2023 “Ballet Tutor” Product & Mobile Application

PROJECT Overview

Ballet Tutor is a ballet barre and instruction system designed for dancers aged 12 and up. It combines a physical ballet barre with a mobile app and screen attachment, offering an at-home private class experience. Inspired by systems like Peloton, Ballet Tutor customizes playlists, recommends videos based on skill level and focus areas, and provides interactive instruction through its mobile app and screen display.

User Research

I conducted interviews with beginner, intermediate, and advanced ballet dancers to identify key design needs:

  • Barre Features: Sturdiness, proper height, portability.

  • At-Home Challenges: Lack of guidance, motivation, and space.

  • Exercise Needs: Strengthening, flexibility, balance, and cardio.

Additionally, I observed ballet classes to analyze how barres are used, ensuring the screen design supported dancers’ needs on both sides of the barre.

Design Process

  1. Anthropometric Research:

    • Designed a double barre at standard studio heights (top barre: 42", lower barre: 32").

    • Ensured grip size (1.5"-1.75" diameter) and screen positioning (46" tall) optimized usability.

  2. App Interface:

    • Modeled after familiar platforms (YouTube, Spotify) for intuitive navigation.

    • Features: User-customized daily playlists, instructional setup guide, and video recommendations tailored to user preferences.

  3. Prototyping & Iteration:

    • Used Figma to develop a functional prototype.

    • Incorporated feedback from usability tests, refining playlist management and layout clarity.

User Feedback & Iterations

  • Successes: Users found the design intuitive and engaging, especially appreciating the app’s customization features and instructional clarity.

  • Challenges: Playlist functionality initially confused some users unfamiliar with similar features, leading to redesigns that clarified video grouping and sequence arrangement.

Final Prototype

  • View the app prototype here.

Reflection

This project deepened my understanding of user-centered design and the importance of iterative testing. Developing the Ballet Tutor strengthened my interest in UX design, particularly in app prototyping. I look forward to applying these skills in future design challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Human Factors principles ensure products meet user needs effectively and efficiently.

  • Collaboration and feedback are crucial throughout the design process.

  • Figma is a tool I aim to master as I pursue a career in UX design and product development.