Scope: Device Concept, App Design & Prototype, UX/UI, Responsive Web Design, Branding, Packaging
A project inspired by “The Internet of Things,” Prism is a concept for a laser measurement system consisting of a laser measurement device integrated with a multi-platform app. Designed from initial concept to preparation of product launch, user testing played a large role in both the architecture of the app and the marketing. The marketing concept “Accurate. Efficient. Simple.” was directly inspired by user input. Prism was created with team members Kimberly Jacobs and Nino Mascorella; out of ten teams in our class, Prism was one of four teams chosen to participate in a competition to pitch our concept to industry professionals. Prism was ultimately awarded first place for best app and connected device.
Research
After coming up with the concept of a connected laser measurement device, the first phase of our project was research into the industry and the marketability of a laser measurement device and app. An important aspect of our research was talking with current laser measurement device users regarding what important features they would need to see in order to purchase a new laser measurement system.
Personae
Based on our research we came up with the following personae based on our target and secondary markets.
Customer Journey Map
Information Architecture
Following is the finalized site architecture. The architecture was modified accordingly after each round of user testing.
Phase I User Testing
Phase I of user testing was done with paper prototypes. The user feedback caused us to make changes such as adding a measurement field where the user could manually enter a measurement and changing the “+” to an “Add Project” button. We also found that our folder structure was confusing and gave our users doubts that they would be able to find the measurement again.
Phase II User Testing
Our second round of user testing took place on site at The Home Depot contractor checkout exit. We used digital prototypes constructed in proto. This round provided a wealth of real world user feedback. We learned that these users preferred words on the buttons over icons. They wanted to push a button to save an entry; they would not trust an auto save function. Users wanted to be able to edit measurements manually for extenuating circumstances and an unlimited capacity to add measurement fields for unpredictable projects. Our most surprising find was the users wanted to confirm their measurements and the option to measure twice. “Measure twice, cut once,” really is the motto of our users. | App Walkthrough |
Device Prototype
Our user testing and research on existing devices yielded a lot of useful information before designing the physical device prototype. Some of the key considerations included having extenders on the device so the user could measure past small obstacles such as windowsills and using a non-skid coating on the device to avoid slips and bad measurements. We also learned that the button should require little pressure so the user would not move the device while pushing the button. However, the button needs to feel “clicky,” meaning the user could feel that they had taken the measurement. Users also told us they wanted a delay built into taking the measurement so any small vibrations caused by pushing the button wouldn’t result in inaccuracies.
Landing Page
A one page website was created as part of the marketing strategy for Prism. The site maintains the overall look and feel of the app while focusing on the important features of both the device and the app. | Visit Site |
Packaging and Product Launch
An important part of the marketing strategy was having a product launch with a major retailer and setting up an in-store product launch where consumers would be able to interact with the product and test prior to purchasing.
