Sanyo promotes universal design (user-oriented design), with the aim of always striving for product creation from the customer’s standpoint. The company seeks to provide products that are easy to use for as many people as possible, irrespective of age, gender, or physical abilities. Accordingly, Sanyo investigates various considerations in the product development process from the perspective of before use, while using, and after use. Through surveys and evaluation tests in which customers also participate, Sanyo verifies whether these considerations have been properly reflected in the new product. Improvements are then made based on the results. Sanyo believes that this is the way to provide appealing products to consumers.
Universal design is realized through the following specific steps.
Designers’experience
Through simulated experiences of being elderly or disabled, designers are able to deepen their understanding of diverse customer realities. This enables them to clarify necessary considerations before developing a product.
Customer interviews
Before beginning development, all members of a development team must first understand customer requirements, such as product usage difficulties and needs. This is done by carrying out interviews and listening to customers in the initial design stage.
Usability evaluation tests
In the development stage, usability tests are carried out with simulators and existing products. By making repeated improvements for identified problem points and issues, the development team works to provide a product that is easier to use and that customers will be very satisfied with.
Scientific investigation
By carrying out scientific and quantitative data analysis in cooperation with external agencies and ergonomics experts, the development team is able to numerically ascertain the design superiority, and comparative investigations using prototypes can also be carried out more objectively.
Inter-departmental committees
Guidelines have been established for the entire Sanyo Group regarding usability considerations and the user-oriented design process. Research is carried out into effective verification methods for the development process and development tools through inter-departmental committees of experts. In this way, universal design is being promoted group-wide.
