2024/08/22
The MFP. Everyone in the office uses it. Everyone wants to get their job done easily and quickly, whenever they need to. Here, we show you how its operation screen is designed to provide such usability.
Fitting All the Functions into the Screen
An MFP has many functions. In addition to standard functions like Copy, Print, Scan and Fax, it also runs both Ricoh and third-party apps. With each function, the user can make settings in detail, such as how they want a paper document to be scanned and converted into data, how they want the data to be printed, and how they want the prints to be organized.
When used to “convert paper and data,” the MFP is operated mainly from the touchscreen of the operation panel on the front of the main unit. We talked to Shin Nakamoto, overall-in-charge of designing this touchscreen, to find out how they fit all the functions into it.
An MFP That Is “Easy To Use”
An MFP has many functions. Some settings are used more than others. At the same time, as the manufacturer of the machine we also want to inform our customers quickly about the machine’s status. And so, status displays, and buttons for commonly used settings, are placed on the top screen where they attract the user’s attention. We also designed it so that only a minimum number of taps is needed to operate the machine.
Some customers may want to use settings not often used by others. For these customers, we also made it possible for them to customize the screen by themselves.
Typically, on an MFP, you first complete the settings, then press the Start button to see the result. With this operation panel, a thumbnail on the right side of the screen, above the Start button, provides a preview as you make settings. When you press the Start button, you can be assured that the result will be just as you wanted.
When using an MFP, the user stands in front of the machine and “looks down” on the operation panel. Large font sizes ensure that the text on the screen is easy to see from a standing position, and large buttons reduce misoperation. Elements on the screen are appropriately spaced out, and related elements are placed near each other to guide the operator’s line of sight.
A Machine That Can Be Used by Everyone in the Office
When everyone uses the MFP, consumables such as toner and staples will run out. In a rare case, paper may be jammed inside the machine. Sometimes, we need the cooperation of our customers to perform simple maintenance or troubleshooting. To guide the customer, instructions are displayed on the screen in the form of animated images that are easy to understand even for someone who is doing it for the first time.
Completing the Design with the Help of Many People
The MFP is used by many people. Not all are familiar with machines. Someone may have low vision. To create a design that is easy to use for everyone, the designer’s perspective alone is not enough. Therefore, we sought the help of planning, marketing, engineering and other departments in the company. We also talked to our dealers and existing customers. Opinions and feedback from many different points of view helped us to improve and complete a design that answers the needs of all its users.
Coherence in Design
There are many applications on the MFP. We need to ensure the same operability for all of them, and the design has to be coherent. To do this, the screen is broken down into components, which are managed as parts and patterns. These parts and patterns are combined to form different screens. When there is a new application or new function, we make use of existing patterns or parts. As a result, shorter time is needed for product development.
We also make use of A.I. to search for parts and patterns. A system is being built that allows the designer to find the most suitable pattern or part, even if they do not know what parts or patterns are available. We are also trying to automate the process of combining patterns or parts to form the screen.
Shin Nakamoto
Mainly involved in UI/UX design for edge devices such as MFPs and interactive whiteboards. Loves camping, fishing and skiing; you will find him outdoors every weekend.
