POLAR REDESIGN
UX/UI
This project was a redesign of the Polar RCX3 Run, a training watch for avid runners. The goal was to provide a better overall user experience based on usability issues identified during user tests. The outcome was a watch and mobile app.
In a nutshell, the redesign eliminated several symbiotic product components and moved goal setting and data analysis functions, from the watch (1) and a software application (2) onto a mobile application (4). The sole function of the redesigned watch (3) is to provide users with performance feedback during a training session.
The redesign significantly reduced cognitive load by reducing the number of buttons and components and efficient use of screen real estate.
Users entered the Polar RCX3 Run journey with healthy enthusiasm, followed by frustration while attempting to pair the stride counter and heart rate monitor with the watch. During the run, users were let down by the notifications they received, which were both disruptive and did not provide actionable insights. Finally, post-run users were disappointed in the level of data granularity and the overall data analysis UI.
The new watch eliminates the need for a stride counter and heart rate monitor, with its built-in GPS and optical sensor. Because of its limited functionality there are 2 buttons, instead of 5
Prior to each run, the user can review and adjust goals on the phone. To pair the phone and the watch the user presses the larger button at the base of the watch face and waits for the Bluetooth symbol to appear. (Scroll to the bottom for a comprehensive user flow.)
Once the run begins, the user only interacts with the phone, which means the phone can be safely strapped to the user’s body. The color of the watch screen tells users to slow down (red), speed up (green) or maintain the status quo (blue) at a glance, without interrupting the runner’s flow.
Once the run is complete, the user’s focus shifts back to the phone for analysis. Users can view their data on a map or graphically, with the flexibility to choose the metrics they want to see.
