Portfolio

Goal

Collect, annotate and evaluate user data to support photorealstic avatar generation in the Metaverse. Project details are confidential. Public information can be found in the following articles:

• Making Meta: Inside the tech giant’s Pittsburgh offices where virtual reality shapes its future
• Meta is developing technology for the metaverse right here in Pittsburgh
• Prototype Meta Headset Includes Custom Silicon for Photorealistic Avatars on Standalone
• Mark Zuckerberg says realistic avatars are Facebook’s next big VR bet

User Testing

Primary Study

I conducted over 50 8-hour data collection sessions for general user studies, utilizing virtual reality headsets and proprietary capture systems (Mugsy). I worked closely with the engineering, safety evaluators, and research study team to ensure proper equipment setup. Additionally, I managed participant interactions, providing instruction and debriefing post-study to gather qualitative feedback. During testing, I conducted user interviews to gather insights. Operating the research equipment, including the capture dome control system and calibration robot, was also part of my responsibilities. I followed and contributed to evolving research scripts based on participant feedback, and collected metrics to optimize the capture process. Any bugs or issues identified were reported through an internal tool. Leveraging UX Research & Design principles, I supported research and development activities, streamlined data collection documentation, and drafted standard operation procedures. I annotated and labeled data accurately, focusing on key performance indicators, and provided feedback to optimize annotation guidelines.

Pilot Studies

I also designed and implemented two pilot user studies to address limitations identified through UX Research conducted on the general study.

Start Date: March 2021 End Date: August 2022

User Experience Research & Strategy

• UX Content & Strategy: Participant Feedback Survey(s), Technician Feedback Survey(s)
• Streamlined Documentation: Capture Notes Optimization, Primary Quality Evaluation Standard Operating Procedure, In-VR Quality Evaluation Standard Operating Procedure, Headset Capture Standard Operating Procedure
• Led Workgroups: User Experience, Team-Building
• Data Diversity Program (DDP): With two other employees of color, I spearheaded an initiative to collect data from a larger variety of participants. The DDP drew in stakeholders from multiple labs and it’s influence spanned across multiple projects supporting the Primary Study. I was nominated by my peers to represent our initiative and presented relevant progress updates to the entire Meta Reality Lab.

Data Analytics:

Primary Study Quality Evaluation

Reviewed collected data, adhering to evolving evaluation criteria to annotate data via Google Sheets.

In-Virtual Reality Quality Evaluation

I reviewed photorealistic avatars in Virtual Reality with a partner, adhering to evolving evaluation criteria to annotate data via proprietary software. I also collaborated with team members to update scoring criteria and develop strong rapport to effectively produce KAPPA scores for the avatars.