The problems that I had to solve when creating the smart home integration app was the challenge of integrating multiple devices efficiently.
This was a group project ran across multiple design sprints throughout the semester where I was one of two developers and researchers. I, along with my partner, was responsible for the user needs analysis where I conducted user research, competitive analysis, journey maps, wireframes, and a prototype to understand the pain points and behaviors, goals, and actions of smart home owners when it comes to integrating smart home devices. Another focus of the app was defining key app features which included adding a filter system to help narrow down users’ search by product type, brand, and room, as well as a search feature that allows the user to contextually find items in search results. This focus of app planning made sure that the usability objectives and metrics for success for both user needs and business viability would be met. The group project allowed my other group member to engage in collaborative and creative conversations which sparked ideas in the design process, which allowed us to compare user data and gather real-world insights to validate the app’s features.
The proposed solution directly addressed the problems identified through user research by integrating key features designed to improve smart home integration. The app provides a filter system to help narrow down users’ search by product type, brand, and room, as well as a search feature that allows the user to contextually find items in search results. Another integration of a key feature is the addition of a search feature that allows the user to contextually find items in search results. This feature solved the lack of searchability around users wanting to contextually search for certain products through a brute forced search bar rather than the filter system. By implementing these solutions, the app simplifies the users' search of integrated smart home products and allows the user to efficiently manage their smart home devices and use of these products. Overall the smart home integration app enhances searchability, organization, and customizability with smart home products.
I arrived at the solutions for the smart home integration app by starting the design process by creating wireframes, that later developed into a high-fidelity prototype that provides a user-centered design approach to making improvements to the interface. These improvements include things such as a filter system to help narrow down users’ search by product type, brand, and room, as well as a search feature that allows the user to contextually find items in search results. This redesigned the app for better functionality and user engagement.
The high-fidelity prototype for the smart home integration app focuses on helping users easily search, filter, and manage their smart devices. Key flows include adding new devices, filtering by brand, type, or room, and marking favorites for quick access. The design prioritizes a clean, minimal interface to reduce friction, while improving discoverability and control across a wide range of connected products.
