Effectively Incorporating Human Factors into Ocular Device Development

Abstract

With the growing prevalence of metabolic disorders (Rupenthal, 2019) and the over-60s population set to increase from today’s 10% of the global population to over 20% in 2050 (Gaudana, Jwala, Boddu, & Mitra, 2009), incidence of ocular disease is rising (Royal College of Ophthalmologists, 2018). This is having a significant impact on the demand for ophthalmology care with a 30-40% increase predicted between 2018- 2038 (Royal College of Ophthalmologists, 2018). Together with leading pharmaceutical partners, Crux Product Design have worked on a range of cutting-edge ocular device development programs aimed to provide better outcomes for patients globally. This paper covers the novel approach to Human Factors applied within these programs, demonstrating the value added when going beyond the regulatory minimum and how successful incorporation of these methods starts with team culture, early and regular usability activities and the careful translation of insights into tangible design improvements.