Summary

The app is elegant and futuristic with a dark aesthetic. The simple interface is intuitive and has little clutter or distraction.

Nonetheless, there are areas for improvement.

Use case study:

Google Slides Presentation and walkthrough:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1fOYHqZ-xZEye3hpB5Z2NugoRi56gtlGGxKZBZBLF-yU/edit?usp=sharing

The Problem

The Ecobee smart-home thermostat app, and device interface, can be confusing to new, or unfamiliar users. The navigation is slightly disjointed and it is difficult to find the features I need quickly. 

Key Insights and Jobs to be Done (JTBD)

1. Navigation

   1. Highlight areas of the interface that get more frequent use by certain user personas.

      1. As a user, I want to access and modify my comfort settings faster.

2. Menu

   1. Rearrange interface options and de-prioritize the weather feature as a app menu option.

      1. As a user, I want schedule as main menu options for faster access.

3. Identifiers

   1. Menu icons could be more affordable and shortcuts are not quickly observable.

      1. As a user, it would be helpful if the status indicator looked like buttons so I know I can interact with it.

The Redesign

To correct the problem, I identified the pathways using user personas. I then modified the info architectecure by providing the user faster access to desired features and with more identifiers. 

• Placed weather icon outside app menu

• Added Comfort and Schedule 

• Text to assist in identifying

• Added circle to indicate actions.

Validation

Hypothesis:

• New users can access areas of the app faster and more easily without detriment to current user base.

Assumptions

• User personas: automation, schedule, comfort, & eco.

• Weather is still used frequently in EcoBee app.

• User prefers fast access versus more beautiful aesthetic (3 menu options).

Testing Methods

• A/B Testing - have users go through proposed design vs current and compare qualitative/quantitative data.

• Shadow users - observe click patterns and habits. 

• Survey - to active users; what do they think? (A/B)

Delivered Solution

Enhancements:

• More discoverable for new users.

• Faster access to schedule and comfort.

Possible Success Metrics

• 50% of new users understand app faster.

• Less than < 30% of current users prefer current design (most like redesign).

• 20% fewer support calls regarding assistance with the app onboarding.

Links

• See Google Slides Presentation

• Figma prototype link