Welcome back, EchoPilot here!
In this update, we dive into our recent showcase at the Prototype Inspection Day (PID), where we unveiled how our prototype elevates JAWS navigation for visually impaired users. Join us as we explore feedback insights, collaboration updates with the DRC, and advancements in our testing suite.
Prototype Showcase and Insights
During the PID, our team conducted two simulations to showcase how our prototype enhances JAWS navigation for visually impaired users. In the first simulation, judges experienced a scenario emulating the navigation challenges faced by visually impaired users relying on JAWS. Here they completed tasks using only keyboard navigation, similar to how a blind user would operate a computer. In the subsequent stage, the judges were permitted to use EchoPilot to assist them in completing the tasks, replicating the support that our prototype offers in real-world scenarios.
In the initial stage, challenges emerged, including the need to identify the operating system and difficulties in navigating URLs and locating specific links. Judges stressed the importance of clarifying the operating system at the start of the simulation and providing clear objectives for each task.
During the second stage, judges acknowledged the clarity of EchoPilot’s results but raised concerns about multiple responses and incorrect prompts. Feedback centered on crafting contextual elevator pitches, improving prompts for single-option best responses, and integrating user testing data.
Moreover, feedback underscored the significance of integrating user feedback, enhancing prompt clarity, and autonomously identifying the user’s environment. These insights will guide our ongoing efforts to refine EchoPilot and improve its usability.
Updates with User and Automated Testing
Our collaboration with the Disability Resource Center (DRC) remains steadfast. We’ve been actively communicating our needs and emphasizing the importance of recruiting prospective testers. This collaboration underscores our commitment to making EchoPilot accessible and user-friendly for all.
Our testing suite underwent expansion, and we conducted thorough automated testing, capturing fresh accuracy data for future stakeholder presentations. This rigorous testing regimen is essential for continuously evaluating and enhancing EchoPilot’s performance across various scenarios.
User testing results will be meticulously analyzed, providing valuable insights for future enhancements. Additionally, we’re revising our automated testing methods to allow for more granular display of results, enabling us to assess performance across different contexts more effectively.
Project Pitch Deliverables
Looking ahead, our next steps are clear. We are gearing up to record a prototype demo video for an in-class review next week. This video will offer a comprehensive overview of EchoPilot’s features, facilitating further feedback and refinement. To address user confusion with our current prototype’s responses, we’re experimenting with better prompts. Our aim is to provide clearer instructions and multiple pathways to accomplish tasks, thereby enhancing the user experience.
Stay tuned for more updates as we near our final stretch!