User-centered design in machine building significantly boosts profitability through practical implementations. Key strategies include focusing on small yet impactful features, refining human-machine interfaces (HMI), enhancing error message quality, and adopting co-creation practices with customers, all of which contribute to a substantial return on investment (ROI).
User-centric features, such as refill alerts on mobile devices, may seem minor but offer considerable time savings. For example, reducing downtime by 30 seconds per refill on a packaging machine can save 4,000 minutes annually, translating to €16,000 in savings, given the machine’s added value of €4 per minute.
Quality and Optimization
Investing in quality HMI design rather than cutting development costs is crucial. Poor interfaces increase training times, operating issues, and support needs, leading to higher costs overall. A well-designed HMI can reduce support needs by 40%, justifying its cost after a certain sales volume. For instance, a €40,000 investment in HMI optimization can break even after selling 74 machines.
Effective error messages are vital for maintaining brand image and minimizing support costs. Poor error messages can lead to significant production losses and a damaged reputation. In contrast, well-crafted messages help operators resolve issues quickly, reducing downtime and saving money. Addressing error messaging can also reduce unnecessary support requests.
Co-Creation and Customer Engagement
Engaging customers in development through feedback sessions and collaboration can lead to valuable insights and faster timelines. For example, a machine builder who involved customers reduced development time by two months and increased revenue by 16%.
Conclusion
Integrating user-centric design principles in machine building enhances profitability through time savings, better error handling, and more effective marketing. Prioritizing impactful features, quality HMI design, and customer co-creation ensures long-term success and competitiveness in the industry.
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