Thanks to the dedication of manufacturers who sought continual feedback from end-users, engineers, architects, and pool builders alike, great strides have since been made in the name of user experience. More attractive and approachable designs were introduced, including remote control access that allows users to independently access the water without assistance from others. More recently, the emergence of beautiful colour options on lifts with much smaller footprints are taking place of the cold, clinical-looking cranes that used to loom over the pool deck. One manufacturer also developed solar-powered lifts, which have led to reduced energy costs and lower overall battery maintenance requirements.
Zero-depth and ramp entry
A design that has become increasingly more popular in recent years, zero-depth or sloped entry pools allow users to gradually enter the water without the need for steps. It is important to note, in terms of user experience, this method is not always the most ideal for people with limited mobility.
While considered an excellent option for the aging population, and users who maintain the ability to walk, these access points can pose difficulties for wheelchair users. Modern everyday wheelchairs, which are very expensive, are not intended for use in water. So, facilities intending to use this method as their primary point of access will need to invest in aquatic access wheelchairs that are specifically designed for aquatics.
However, even with the right chair, the user journey becomes precarious when entering the water. Individuals who want to swim independently must first enter the water until they reach a sufficient depth for transferring from their chair into the pool. At this point, without assistance from others, they would be forced to abandon their wheelchair in the middle of the pool, without complete confidence it will still be there when they return.
User experience as it relates to pool access begins the moment someone enters a facility. To better understand the user journey, it is important to understand every organization, access point, and facility possesses its own distinct characteristics. As a result, each instance may require a unique solution.
Creating a positive user experience with pool access equipment
In the realm of pool access equipment design, several fundamental user experience principles are directly applicable. They can serve as a valuable tool for assessing one’s products and facilities to identify areas in need of improvement. For example:
Usability
Pool access equipment must be user-friendly and intuitive. Users should be able to understand how to use it without requiring extensive guidance or instructions. This principle ensures swimmers, regardless of their familiarity with the pool, can navigate the equipment effortlessly.
