ProtectorSuite QL (PS QL) is the software that drives the UPEK biometric scanner that is delivered on board a variety of computers. The PS QL software is used to set-up a user's fingerprints to allow login via fingerprint scan rather than username/password, creation of a password bank for user accessed websites, file encryption, one swipe access to launch mapped programs, as well as a variety of other functions and administrative tasks.

Because UPEK doesn't work directly with the end users, they were somewhat removed from the actual user experience, and wanted to better understand how the software was being received and interpreted. Is it easy? Are people able to use it? Are they finding and using all of the capabilities?

Busse Design was tasked with conducting a Rapid Usability Assessment of the current PS QL software to determine how well it met its goal of being so easy that "grandma could use it". The test also explored whether there were differences in the expectations and experiences of the product's two user groups: consumer and corporate.

When the assessment was complete Busse Design provided UPEK with a coherent report and documentation of their findings and constructive recommendations on how to better address the products target audiences.

About UPEK, Inc.
UPEK, Inc., the global leader in biometric fingerprint security solutions, offers integrated end-to-end solutions including comprehensive design & integration services to the world's leading consumer and industrial products companies. UPEK biometric security products enable a wide range of applications including password replacement for PCs and applications, centralized management for corporate network security, secure mobile transactions, protection of portable data, identity verification for government and military applications, and physical access control.

UPEK has been pioneering biometric fingerprint technology since 1996 and shipping product in volume since 1999. UPEK is headquartered near Berkeley, California with offices in Prague, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo. For more information please visit http://www.upek.com.

About Busse Design USA
Busse Design USA Inc., founded in 1997, and Busse Design Ulm GmbH, founded in 1959, together form a full-service design agency. Busse Design USA provides a wide range of services for their clients —including user interface design, product design and development, branding and packaging design, and a wide range of usability testing services. Working from a human factors perspective, Busse Design USA combines compelling design with strong process methodologies that result in superior user experiences for both its clients and their customers and partners. Headquartered in a restored 1913 building in Emeryville, CA — home to one of the largest populations of artists studios in the San Francisco Bay Area — Busse Design USA employs accomplished designers, Human Computer Interaction specialists, information architects, as well as brand and marketing experts. More information about Busse Design USA can be found at http://www.bussedesign.com.