PRISM+ is launching new air conditioners but lacks a dedicated app for user control and management, leading to a subpar user experience. The challenge is to design a user-friendly smart home app that allows users to control their units anytime, anywhere, offering essential features without overwhelming them. The goal is to enhance customer satisfaction by providing seamless remote access and management of their air conditioning units.
The team was tasked with launching a multitude of features within a limited time frame. However, during user interviews, it became apparent that some users were feeling overwhelmed by the extensive offerings. Further validation was provided through Google surveys, which revealed that 40% of users felt that the abundance of features made the experience complicated.
Design solutions
Creating a smart home app with a user friendly, simple and intuitive interface. Allowing user to control, automate and schedule their air conditioners. To have the ability to track usage data and insights.
View final solutions
Kicking off with research
I wanted to understand how people are using a smart home app today. What are their experience and collect all data i can to help inform my design decision.
User interview
I conducted interviews with friends and family, given the absence of a dedicated user group, to gather insights into their experiences with smart home apps.
Market research
I conducted a competitive analysis to gain insights into the smart home app landscape, aiming to learn from from existing products. This analysis helped to identify potentially advantageous features for our own app development.
Features that user needs
A prioritisation list of features based on user research that we will be working on. Important features like: Pairing of devices, controls, automations and data insights to understand ur pattern usage etc.
Features that is good to have
Raising awareness for new home appliances brand
Gaining awareness is importance to allow people to know about the brand. The app received extensive coverage on online social media platforms
User-centered design
I learnt to demonstrate ability to prioritise user needs and preferences by creating an intuitive and user-friendly interface for controlling smart devices in a home environment. Especially when the organization is still in the early stage of growth where they have yet to see the value of having a dedicated research team so at times, the team moves forward without having to validate hypotheses or test usability issues.