Client: Hale Micro
It all started with a conversation.
The Proposal
We said "What if", what if we could design and build a MIDI hardware sequencer, like the MSQ700, the one built and designed in the 80's or the MMT-8, both of which are selling on eBay for more than they were 25 years ago. With hardware synthesizer and modular synths coming back into fashion, Hale Micro saw a hole in the market. Having already designing and building MIDI interfaces and control surfaces in the past the gauntlet was thrown down. Can a small desktop hardware sequencer be built and sold in the $300-400 price range.
With similar items being sold and brought to market for nearly double and up to three or four times that price point, there was clearly a hole in the market and we felt that it could surely be done.
The Outcome
My relationship over the years with Hale Micro previously led to collaborations on hardware and virtual MIDI devices. My experience in this area in the past as a beta tester and pro user with several large music hardware/software companies has helped me shape my understanding of the market as well as the deficiencies and shortcomings of products currently on the market. This led me to begin conceiving the new hardware sequencer functionality and interface design.
I was tasked with developing a workflow, functions, needs, and wants that I would then interpret into a user interface, and then a functioning case. Hale Micro would develop the working BIOS, PCB design, and case design. Working prototypes are coming soon and will make their way to a Kickstarter campaign.
My Role:
User experience design, interface design. Workflow and functionality map. Required specs and functionality. Product design and branding.
