Developing an Intuitive Measurement Application for Non-Engineering End Users

Explore how Soliton’s collaboration with a semiconductor company enabled a minimal to no-code solution for non-engineers to integrate with sensors for data streaming and help effortlessly measure real-time data.  

The demand for precise data measurement and processing is prevalent across various industries and professions. While many roles may require data measurement skills, most end users may lack knowledge of the right tools and techniques to comprehend and leverage the measurement technologies. This gap is especially noticeable in sectors such as agriculture and healthcare, where accurate data insights from electronic components can aid in better decision-making.  

Our customer sought to bridge the gap by devising a simple solution for non-engineering end users to make real-time measurements without deep programming or measurement expertise and partnered with Soliton on this endeavor.     

The Customer in Picture 

Our customer, a multinational semiconductor firm, was already well known for their successful sensors in the market. These ICs were sold to engineers. Our customer aimed to expand its horizons by introducing a self-serve measurement kit directly to end users.

To make this shift and ensure a positive user experience for end-users from a non-engineering background, the kit had to be intuitive enough for end users to successfully build their own measurement solutions and measure real-time data with no programming.

Collaborating with Soliton

Soliton conceptualized an effective end-solution that would help achieve the customer’s vision.

Within a few weeks, the Soliton engineering team, comprising electronics engineers, software developers, and UX designers, constructed a solution architecture encompassing a visionary, high-fidelity mock-up of the proposed idea, specifically from the end-user perspective.

Based on this quick and creative proposal that we were able to make, we were selected as the development partner for this project.

 Soliton’s solution comprised of a Desktop User Interface, a Background Application Service, a Browser Extension, and Cloud Integration. Moreover, Soliton’s design incorporated four distinct modes of operation, each tailored to provide users with flexibility in interacting with the electronic components and utilizing gathered data.   

  • Background Service Application

This application, integral to both desktop and browser modes, operates discreetly in the background of the client’s PC. Its primary function involves collecting data at regular intervals from connected devices and seamlessly transmitting it to the Cloud.

  • Desktop User Interface  

Central to the solution, this interface serves as the primary portal for end users to access and configure the electronic boards. Available through a downloadable desktop application or a browser for a lightweight installation, both versions offer identical features. 

  • Browser Extension 

This component is exclusively for users who prefer the browser edition. Facilitating communication between the browser edition and the desktop application, this extension streamlines data exchange. Its installation process is straightforward, and its utility extends across all modes of operation. 

  • Cloud 

A Cloud-based final repository for real-time data and measurements plays a pivotal role in the solution. When online, the data gets written on the Cloud with minimal latency, and when offline, the data is stored in local storage and is uploaded once the internet is restored. 

Layout of the Solution

In ensuring user-friendly functionality for non-engineering users, Soliton also provided robust testing to ensure high-quality software. This encompassed creating test environments, crafting manual test plans, and executing them pre-release, along with automated unit, UI, load, and acceptance testing. 

Summary 

Soliton provided a very positive collaborative experience throughout the engagement. This was primarily possible due to the availability and deployment of expert cross-functional teams comprising electronic engineers, software developers, and UX designers, which is a scarce combination of skills within a single organization.  

Furthermore, Soliton’s high-fidelity mock-ups not only instilled confidence by visualizing their vision but also ensured that the final application precisely matched their expectations, strengthening the trust in our partnership and solidifying their conviction in us. 

Read more similar cases and witness how Soliton solved, aided, and upgraded our customer requirements from the “Case Study” section.

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