CarbonSense
Simplified Habit-Making For Neurodivergents.
Problem Statement:
The majority of individuals like the idea of minimizing their negative impact on the environment. However, the effort that goes into it can be overwhelming - especially neurodivergent individuals that struggle with task execution and lifestyle changes.
The goal of this project is to increase usage and engagement amongst a commonly overlooked persona. Findings from this project could also be applied towards non-lifestyle apps, as well as neurotypical personas.
My Roles:
Product Designer
UX Researcher
Design Process:
Identifying the Persona
Research
Ideate
Prototyping
User-Testing
Refinement
Identifying the Persona
As a project that focuses on neurodiversity, I had to identify specific personas. By utilizing diagnosed neurodivergent volunteers, I was able to narrow down the user persona of my app to individuals with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Addiction.
2. Research
Research participants were interviewed on their neurodivergent backgrounds, and how their neurodiversity affects their needs.
They were then tasked to test highly-rated eco-lifestyle apps, EarthHero, Carbn, and Litterati for 10-20 minutes. Participants carried out tasks such as: complete a challenge, document a piece of trash being picked up, and review provided resources.
Examples of areas that were observed includes: user dislikes, things that worked well or were enjoyable, areas where the users felt stuck, and features that would meet their neurodivergent needs.
3. Ideate
By utilizing the findings from the interviews, I created a wireframe using Figma. There was a strong emphasis of incentivized and rewarded actions within the interviews, so that was reflected through encouraging copy and challenges.
4. Prototyping
Using the wireframes above, I created prototypes by applying the preferred aesthetic: a minimalistic design with pops of color.
5. User-Testing
After completing the prototype, I had the same individuals test the prototype. Helpful feedback included the lack of main components that were within the wireframe, as well as inconsistencies in the design. Overall, they found the app very straight forward and streamlined.
6. Refinement
The final refinement of the app included more visually engaging features such as a carbon footprint pie chart, and an automatic praise for each completed level.
The final prototype can be viewed here.
Results & Metrics:
Important metrics to watch include user feedback, task completion, carbon footprint progress. By gathering feedback from neurodivergent users through surveys, interviews, or user feedback forms. Inquiring about their experience using the app, its accessibility features, and their overall satisfaction. Questions related to the app's impact on their understanding of eco-conscious practices and whether it has motivated them to adopt sustainable behaviors will also be helpful.
It is also important to observe if users are able to complete tasks easily and navigate the app smoothly. Tracking user actions and identifying any bottlenecks or points of confusion can help determine factors impeding the app's usability for neurodivergent individuals. Lastly, by analyzing the amount of tasks completed and a reduction in carbon footprint will be efficient indicators of success.
Addressing Neurodivergent Pain Points in Design:
This project highlighted the tremendous importance of considering neurodivergent users' needs when designing eco-conscious apps. By actively seeking their feedback and insights, we were able to gain a deeper understanding of their unique requirements and challenges. This knowledge allowed us to create a more inclusive and accessible app experience that catered to a diverse range of users.
Additionally, I learned the importance of simplicity and clarity in user interfaces. By streamlining navigation paths, providing concise instructions, and organizing information effectively, we improved the usability of the app for all users, including those with cognitive differences.
