Project Details:
Client: Audi
My Role: UX/UI Designer & Researcher (individual)
Platform: Car UI
Sector: Automotive
Methodologies: 4 Steps: Research > Design > Testing > Final Design
Tools Used: Pencil & Paper. Figma.
Skills Developed: Research skills. Hand-sketching. Wire-framing. User testing. Problem-solving.
Audi Auto
Project Type: Car User Interface
Step 1: Research
My client asked for three job stories as it is a fast way to wrap a ton of information and secondary research into a few paragraphs to really display user needs and wants. In creating these job stories, I also did a ton of independent research online regarding safety guidelines, as well as looked to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for examples of what they are doing.
Step 2: Design
To get the process going I hand-sketched a few rough ideas as to how the screens could possibly look. I designed for touch first, and knob and voice second. To make my sketches more presentable, I also designed a medium-fidelity storyboard which are both below:
Step 3: Testing
My medium-fidelity was tested on 10 participants who are regular users of their car's UI system. To summarize, feedback included:
-
Have more percentages in opening/closing windows
-
Make icons and widgets visible
-
Have a "back" function
-
Create a setting for turning all lights on and off
-
Include personalization for users for all functions
-
Make buttons more visible by creating contrast so it's clear they can be clicked.
Step 4: Final Storyboard Mockup
Upon taking all of the feedback received, I went back into Figma and created the final UI. In addition to incorporating the feedback, I also added a map, a screen as an example in night-mode, and a car visual to help make user selections clearer and faster. Below is my high-fidelity storyboard.
Project Self-Reflection
This project was very unique because prior to it, I never even considered searching for UX employment within the automotive industry. Based upon my research, this would be a heavily regulated career option with many restrictions, especially when it comes to safety. I also would assume that this type of UX work would require a TON of user testing to ensure safety and that all provincial rules are being met. Overall this project was very enjoyable and it was fun to research and design for a product that I never though to far in depth before.
Additional Project Components: