For a class project, we wanted to improve the efficiency of waiters and waitresses with a handheld device. To order a drink, they typically write down your order on paper, walk around to a few other tables, and then finally leave the paper order at the bar. The bartender is usually in the middle of making a drink, so he doesn't get to it right away.
We observed a number of waiters and waitresses at different restaurants, and evaluated the drink ordering systems that some of them had behind the bar. We sketched some product concepts, and created 3 foam prototypes that we tested for ergonomic fit with a handful of students. I then designed the user interface and printed out a sequence of paper screens. We placed the paper prototypes on the foam prototype, and did some usability testing with actual waiters and waitresses.
CONCEPT SKETCHES
These sketches show early concepts for the handheld device. The proper handheld ergonomics was a key consideration.
We created some prototypes of the handheld in foam to test the ergonomic fit. After getting feedback from a range of students, the top option was chosen.
I designed the user interface for the handheld, and created a series of flows to simulate tasks like ordering a drink.
We went out in the field to bars and restaurants, where we had waiters and waitresses hold the device, fill out a survey to get their feedback, and complete a usability test with paper prototypes. We measured the time it took them to place an order with the paper prototypes, and compared it to the actual observed time for placing a drink order by walking to the table. For those familiar with handheld devices, the time was significantly improved.
