SP Human Factors Center

Purpose and goal

The project investigated the possibilities to establish a human factors lab in Sweden with focus on medical device technology. The lab will be able to simulate different care environments and situations in order to make real-world testing with users. This is part of creating products with high usability adapted for the right users and the environment, thus minimizing the risk of misuse and patient risk. The project investigated existing usability labs and discussed the needs medical device companies would have on such a lab. The lab is also planned to be used for training.

Results and expected effects

SP Human Factors Lab offers three possibilities - Actual care environments in clinical training centers in hospitals - Portable Lab - set up in the desired environment, even abroad - Lab at SP in Borås - testing of products other than medical Authority´s requirements regarding the fulfillment of standards of work processes around usability (ISO 62366) increases gradually. Thus, we believe that the demand for this service will increase and that the lab will help increase exports by compliance of global standards, as well as attract foreign companies to Sweden.

Approach and implementation

During the project, visits to usability labs and hospital clinical training centers have been performed. Companies of all sizes have been interviewed about their needs for services and laboratory environments. A pilot usability test with 30 test subjects in rented premises has been conducted, with lessons learned. E.g. the project learnt that the test facilities must be easy to get to, be located in a region with many possible test subjects, provide access to the lab around the clock, and that the lab should be an innovation environment and not only usability test facilities.