Week #12 – Putting the Idea to the Test

Validating the idea in real life 🧪

This week, we focused on user testing using a simple paper prototype of our bracelet. Before moving into technology and development, we wanted to validate the core idea and understand whether a physical object on the wrist can actually help create a pause in moments of stress.

To do that, we built a very basic version of the bracelet. A fabric strap with Velcro and a manually attached physical button. There were no sensors or smart features involved. The goal was to see how people naturally interact with a physical reminder, and whether a small action like pressing a button could influence awareness and behavior in real-life situations.

How we tested it 👥

We tested the bracelet with two users and asked them to wear it during their daily routine. We avoided giving detailed instructions on purpose. Instead, we wanted to observe natural behavior and understand when, how, and if the bracelet would be used during moments of stress, pressure, or overload.

After a day of use, we held short follow-up conversations to hear how the experience felt, when they noticed the bracelet, and whether pressing the button actually helped them stop and regulate in the moment.

Key insights from the test 💡

The experiment gave us many meaningful insights. One of the main things we learned is that people already know breathing helps them calm down. The real challenge is remembering to do it at the right moment. In many cases, the button served as that reminder and helped create a short pause before reacting.

We also learned how important the physical feeling of the bracelet is. When it was noticeable on the wrist, users remembered it more easily. When it was too comfortable and barely felt, it was easy to forget it was there. Another important insight was that the bracelet wasn’t only used during conflicts with others, but also during moments of internal stress or overload.

Presenting the journey & looking ahead 🚀

Alongside the testing, we presented our full journey throughout the semester in the final presentation. Looking back at the process helped us realize how much we’ve actually progressed, and how we moved from an initial topic to a concrete product idea over time.

The feedback we received was meaningful and constructive. It reinforced how important it is not to get stuck or fall in love with a single direction, but instead stay open, flexible, and willing to challenge our own assumptions. This mindset pushed us to think more broadly and look at our product from new perspectives.

We are heading into the exam period with many clear insights, but also with a few open questions we still need to answer. We’re excited to continue developing both the product and ourselves, and we’re already looking forward to the next semester and the opportunity to keep refining and growing.