Astir
Overview
Non-invasive cancer treatment platform that improves and maintains the quality of life
Implementing a user-centric
approach in cancer treatment
Patients need ongoing support and comfort throughout their treatment journey, and by prioritizing usability and personalization, we aim to empower users with more independence in their treatment.
TTF technology provides non-invasive treatment
While chemotherapy and surgery are invasive treatments for cancer, TTF (tumor-treating fields) offers a non-invasive alternative using electric fields to target tumors.
As a Digital Product Lead
I facilitated both research and design phases, from gathering insights and creating personas in research to crafting the digital experience and shaping product ecosystems for a seamless user journey in design.
My role
Journey mapping
UI design
Visual design
Interaction design
User testing
Awards
Team
Leah Jones
Gabriel Mataleo
Celine Pyun
Courtney Hull
The current devices are bulky and not user-friendly for daily use
Wireless design is prioritized
The majority of patients we spoke with expressed a desire to adapt to a "new" normal life, where they could independently carry out tasks, feel motivated, and regain a sense of accomplishment rather than feeling sick and useless, underscoring the necessity for a wireless design to ensure optimal mobility and flexibility in everyday usage.
Uncertain about the treatment
4 out of 5 cancer survivors we interviewed expressed concerns about insufficient or misunderstood information from healthcare providers, leading to doubts and uncertainties about their treatment decision.
Astir is designed to enhance the life quality
A controllable and insightful app
Astir’s digital platform provide users with control and insights of their treatment journey.
TTF Puck is wireless and accessible
A wireless, user-operated device that is placed on the skin nearest to the tumor site prior to treatment initialization.
A chargeable and protective case
Provides the user with a convenient destination to store, charge, and protect their Astir puck and any necessary supplies that they will use during the treatment
Positive reinforcement ensures that patients remain motivated throughout their journey
An organic visual style fosters
trust and conveys a sense of care
During cancer treatment, patients often interact with numerous medical devices and services that lack distinctive visual elements, resulting in a generic and impersonal experience. Recognizing this, Astir adopts an organic visual approach that is vibrant yet calming, aiming to instill a sense of positivity and individuality for each patient.
Donating to charity
transforms challenges into acts of kindness
Cancer survivors have expressed feeling on the brink of giving up, experiencing a sense of uselessness to themselves and those around them. However, they find renewed strength and purpose in helping others while battling cancer, which empowers them to persevere on their journey.
Community page fosters support and raising awareness
Mental health plays a crucial role in the cancer journey. Patients find inspiration and strength in witnessing others fighting and triumphing over cancer, reinforcing their own resolve to persevere through the challenges they face.
Tracking progression and monitoring health and support 24/7
For patients who may not have a strong support network of friends and family, a remote 24/7 care system provides crucial support whenever needed. This system ensures that patients can access assistance and guidance at any time, offering them a sense of security and companionship throughout their journey.
A hands-free device promotes comfort and enables an active lifestyle
Many patients expressed a desire to minimize phone checking during treatment. A hands-free device like a smartwatch can help by allowing them to focus on what truly matters, such as cooking, picking up kids from school, and spending time with family. It can announce only essential information, freeing up more time for meaningful activities.
The packaging experience delivers positivity
Gradient was used to
spark hope and optimism
Most patients prefer medical products that don't look medical. They seek vibrant colors as a remedy for what they're dealing with.
The manual instruction booklet provides comprehensive guidance
Embracing users' preference for better information absorption through ink and paper, alongside digital onboarding, the booklet allows users to learn how to use and incorporate Astir into their daily lifestyle.
The physical device, Astir puck, was designed with minimal visual elements
The puck serves as a gateway for both treatment and remote monitoring by healthcare providers
It's essential for users to utilize the puck whenever needed. Its small form factor ensures ease of use and portability.
The case serves
a charging station and the protect the puck
To address users' concerns about the puck's battery life while traveling, the case has been designed as a rechargeable station. Additionally, it's made from water-resistant materials to provide optimal protection.
Usability testing highlighted a need for accessibility
The slide-in mechanism facilitates one-hand operation.
"I want to use it with one hand" said by a cancer survivor. Users prefer cancer treatment devices that offer ease of operation, empowering them to gain confidence and independence throughout their treatment journey.
Customizable peanut-shape gel pad
The shape is a versatile and ergonomic solution for providing comfort and support to various body parts. Its unique shape could allow it to conform to different contours, making it adaptable for use on elbows, knees, lower back, and more.
Actionable suggestions
enhance comprehension of medical data
Turning insights into action
Practical lifestyle suggestions, tailored to individual needs, alongside treatment adjustments, are crucial for patients facing fluctuating biometric data. These empower patients to regain confidence and control over their healthcare journey, promoting improved well-being amidst uncertainty.
Information blobs create a clear hierarchy
Patients expressed struggles to understand their biometric data. Organizing information into distinct "blobs" helps establish a clear hierarchy, ensuring that each piece of information is easily distinguishable and comprehensible.
Embracing Agile design process
Adapting to changes more quickly and effectively
Instead of following independent phases in the traditional UX process, the design cycle of “think”, “make”, and “check” gave me so much flexibility, space, and time to iterate, then refine and even prevent creative blocks.
A/B/C testing accelerates progress
A/B/C testing is instrumental in accelerating progress by swiftly identifying the most effective solutions and iterating based on real-time feedback, expediting the path forward.
Junior prize of Red dot Award
Astir – A Non-Invasive Cancer Treatment Concept
Astir secured my second Junior Prize Red Dot Award, marking a significant achievement despite the technical limitations of conceptual design. The recognition from such a prestigious award fills us with pride and fuels our aspirations for Astir to one day enter the market.
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