Tuji's Microblog

Waterloo station- toilets (water & soap dispenser) 💧

Problem-

There a hand wash basin in the Waterloo station toilet. The soap dispenser has sensor so you just have to wave and the soap comes out but the water tap does not have sensor. I have used that toilet multiple times and I always get confused between how to use them as I assume one works like another. I have seen many people getting confused about with the same.

Solution-

  1. Consistency: Ensure consistency in the user interface of the hand wash basin. If the soap dispenser has a sensor, it would be helpful if the water tap also had a sensor. Consistent interaction patterns make it easier for users to understand and use the system.

  2. Visual Cues: Incorporate visual cues to indicate the different interaction methods for the soap dispenser and water tap. For example, you can place clear signage or symbols above each device, clearly illustrating the appropriate action for each.

  3. Instructional Signage: Display clear instructions near the hand wash basin that explicitly explain the steps to use both the soap dispenser and the water tap. Use simple language and intuitive visuals to guide users through the process.

  4. Feedback and Affordance: Ensure that users receive visual or auditory feedback when interacting with the soap dispenser and water tap. This feedback could include indicators such as LED lights or sounds to confirm that the device has registered the user's action.

  5. User Testing and Feedback: Conduct user testing to gather feedback and insights from actual users. Observe how they interact with the hand wash basin and ask for their opinions and suggestions. This feedback can help identify any further areas of improvement and refine the user experience.

  6. Ongoing Maintenance: Regularly check the hand wash basin to ensure that the soap dispenser and water tap are in proper working condition. If any malfunctions occur, promptly address and fix them to prevent user frustration.