Project Overview
HikeSmart is a Product Innovation designed to to help older generations stay safe and healthy through the use of smart technology in their walking aids. It allows users track their activity stats and get aid through mountain rescue services. The product links to an app which can track routes and provide tracking for family, friends and S.O.S in emergencies.
HikeSmart aims to be inclusive and is compatible with ski poles and mountaineering poles to be used by all outdoor adventurers in the mountains.
Skills
- User Research
- Innovation Strategy
- Design Thinking
- UX/UI Design
The Problem
Stigma around walking aids is creating poor user-product relationships, discouraging people from buying one and giving first-time users social anxiety leading to health and safety concerns.
Design Process
Research Findings
Through Research methods such as Kansei engineering, user surveys and focus groups I could narrow narrow down some of the challenges and get to the route of the problem.
6.4%
Predicted Market Growth of Walking aids by 2025
54%
Think aids makes them feel old/weak
89%
Claim Smart features would help reduce stigma
Challenges
- Reducing Stigma
- Improving User Safety
- Improving User Health
- Lack of Inclusive Design
User response
- Smart Features
- Tracking App Function
- Create of Goals and Motivation
- Improved aesthetic and form
Ideation
Through further Kansei research techniques I could compare the phycological and emotional user responses to initial ideas. Results concluded that users would have a positive experience with simple navigation, layout and a bold contrasting display.
User Flow
User Mapping for the use of the pole screen and app interaction.
User Interface Layout
After identifying the key app features through user research and requirements, I began wireframing the individual sections of the app as well as determining the screen style for the pole display. Once the layout was identified in a way that prioritised older users so that it was simple and intuitive, I could move on to high fidelity designs and testing.
AI Tools - Replit
Inputting the idea and parameters into Replit provided inspiration for the overall style of the App. I also used it as a tool for feature suggestions that could be incorporated into the App such as a real time zoom map as well as function showing the connection and battery life of the hiking pole display.
Prototyping
On establishing product functions, designs and layouts I could wireframe the application in Figma.
Solution
The Final solution involved development from the Replit model combined with research and ideation to provide a smart, simple and smooth application which linked directly to the user's walking aid as well providing a contact alert for family and friends.
User Interface design for the walking aid screen. Simple design with a single button requiring a light tap to flick through displays and a longer hold to turn on/off.
