The Brief
A radio built for the
world's toughest users.
Police officers, firefighters, and emergency responders operate in environments where failure is not an option. The MXP 600 had to deliver TETRA mission-critical communication with a form factor that could withstand extreme conditions, be operated with gloves, and be worn for 12-hour shifts without fatigue.
As Design Lead and Principal ID, I oversaw the full design program from initial brief through DFM and production handoff, collaborating with team across Penang, Malaysia and Fort Lauderdale, USA.
Design Process
From field research
to production.
01 · Discover
Field Research with First Responders
Conducted contextual research with police, fire, and EMS teams across multiple countries. Mapped pain points around grip, button accessibility, antenna placement, and belt-clip ergonomics during active use scenarios.
02 · Define
Design Requirements & Platform Strategy
Translated user insights into a comprehensive design brief aligned with TETRA standards, IP67 requirements, and Motorola's global accessory ecosystem. Defined CMF strategy and platform language to extend across the TETRA family.
03 · Conceive
Ideation & Concept Selection
Generated 40+ concept directions across ergonomics, antenna configurations, and button layouts. Ran rapid physical mockup sessions to evaluate grip geometry before committing to CAD. Selected direction prioritized gloved-hand operation and single-hand usability.
04 · Develop
DFM, CMF & Global Engineering Alignment
Worked closely with mechanical engineering teams in Penang and NA to resolve DFM constraints while preserving design intent. Developed CMF specification across antenna, keypad, and housing materials. Managed design reviews through 6 major engineering gates.
05 · Validate
Ergonomics Testing & Regulatory Review
Coordinated ergonomics validation studies with real users in operational contexts. Ensured compliance with ATEX (hazardous environment) and IECEx certification requirements. Presented to executive stakeholders at multiple design reviews.
06 · Launch
Production Handoff & IP Filing
Supported full NPI process through production launch. Filed industrial design patents. Collaborated with marketing on product launch storytelling and visual identity assets.
Design Development
Sketches, models,
and refinements.
Design Process
From research to
production reality.
A disciplined multi-phase process from early UI and interface concepts, through form exploration and rapid prototyping, to final DFM and production validation.
UI · UX Development
Early Renders · Concept Exploration
Prototypes · Physical Development
Units shipped in year one
"The MXP 600 set a new standard for mission-critical TETRA design , earning top international design recognition and influencing 37+ subsequent products across the Motorola Solutions portfolio."
Recognition