Project Overview

Project:

Mobile Application for Robotic Vacuum.

Objective:

To redesign the mobile application for a new model of robotic vacuum, incorporating new features and addressing issues found in the previous version.

Context:

Users of previous models were dissatisfied with both the vacuum's performance and the app, finding it less innovative compared to competitors.

A significant number of users did not utilize the app at all.

My role:

Leading designer for the project.

Occasional collaboration with UX design team from sister robotic vacuum brand - performing dairy studies, sharing insights and ideas.

Problem Statement

Users of previous robotic vacuums were unhappy with their performance and the application. They perceived it to be less innovative and capable than the offer from the competitors. Also, a significant number of users didn't use the app at all.

Goal: Increase the use of the application, and increaste app rating which at the time was 2.5 starts.

My process:

➜ Desk research

➜ Benchamrking

➜ Design & iteration with stakeholders

➜ Dairy studies

➜ Implementing changes

➜ Usability Testing

➜ Overseeing implementation, Design QA

Research

• I have started with desk research: Analyzed comments from app stores, forums, user groups, and YouTube videos.
  
  

• Than proceed with benchmarking: Compared features with competitor applications.
  
  

• After design ideations with stakeholders, we have performed Dairy testing panels on 3 robotic vacuums:
  Conducted a six-week test with six participants using competitor vacuums, followed by weekly tasks and questionnaires.

Results:

• I've identified gaps in the current app compared to competitors.

• I've gathered user feedback on likes and dislikes of specific features.

Key findings

❌ Reliability: The app's reliability is crucial; poor performance can deter usage.

❌ Automation: Users prefer minimal interaction with the cleaning process.

❌ Set-up Efficiency: Time-consuming setups should be automated to ease user burden.

❌ Flexibility: The app should allow flexible cleaning options for different parts of the home.

❌ Additional Features: Users desire features like floor washing.

❌ Comprehensive Solution: The app should eliminate the need for regular vacuums or mops.

Methodology

Final changes

• Stable Connection: Ensure a highly reliable connection between the device and the app, addressing a common pain point with competitors' apps.

• Custom Cleaning Settings:

  • Save custom settings for one-click execution.

  • Scheduled cleaning with predefined settings.

  • Enhanced object avoidance with suggestions for restricted areas.

• Automated Features:

  • Automatic room mapping and floor type detection.

  • Self-emptying dirt bin.

• Flexible Cleaning Options:

  • Select previously defined areas for cleaning.

  • Customize settings for specific areas, such as high-traffic zones.

• Mopping Integration:

  • Built-in mopping with customizable settings similar to vacuuming.

• Spot Cleaning:

  • Mark a spill on the map and send the robot to clean it immediately.

Application rating increased from 2.5 to 4.1 stars.

There was a significant raise in downloads and usage of the app.