Summer Momentum at IAA: Innovation, Impact, and Insights

This summer at Interface Analysis Associates (IAA) has been defined by impactful human factors activities, insightful user studies, active participant recruitment, and continued contributions to thought leadership in human factors and usability.

User Study Highlights

• Reusable Pen for Combination Drug Product
We conducted a usability study on a reusable pen device which is known for its complexity in validation. Through meticulous planning and a user-centered approach, the study results were exceptionally positive, demonstrating strong performance and reliability.
• Novel Medical Device for Incontinence Treatment
This study focused on a new device designed for healthcare professionals treating incontinence. Our team’s deep understanding of clinical workflows and user needs ensured precise execution. Small and iterative pilot studies conducted just before each main human factors validation study helped refine protocols, interfaces, and Instructions For Use (IFUs)—leading to improved task performance and high client satisfaction.
• Comparative Use Human Factors Study for a Pen Injector
This large study focused on a proposed generic device for a popular GLP-1 drug. IAA developed the matching IFU, comparative analysis report, and Comparative Use Human Factors (CUHF) protocol. The study showed a positive result and demonstrated non-inferiority for the proposed generic device.

IAA Study Recruitment

This month, IAA is conducting a paid simulated use study in Saratoga, CA. The study invites men aged 50–75 to participate in a one-time, 60-minute, non-invasive session to provide feedback on a new drug delivery device. Participants will earn $300 for their insights, helping shape the future of the product design. No medical procedures are involved, and all materials are provided. Interested individuals can contact us at 408.780.1761 or [email protected] to see if they qualify.

Thought Leadership

IAA continues to support the broader human factors community through active participation in professional organizations. This October, the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) will host its annual meeting, ASPIRE, in Chicago. The event brings together professionals from around the world for a week of presentations, workshops, and networking focused on human factors research and application. More information is available at https://www.hfes.org/Events/ASPIRE-International-Annual-Meeting/ASPIRE-Home.

As a member of the host committee, Dr. Anthony Andre, director of IAA, is contributing to planning efforts aimed at improving the attendee experience. His involvement reflects ongoing engagement with the professional human factors community and support for initiatives that advance the discipline.

Human Factors Insight

Designers often face a dilemma—users may prefer designs that don’t actually support their best performance. This paradox was explored in the classic article, “When Users Want What’s NOT Best for Them,” by Dr. Anthony Andre and Chris Wickens. Thirty years later, its message still resonates—reminding us that user-centered design must balance preference with performance. Read it here: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/106480469500300403

IAA can help support your human factors needs­—contact us to learn more.