1.0 Inspiration
“The wheelchair is an extension of my body.”
“My life changed for the better when I bought the right wheelchair”
1.1 The problem
Our extensive primary and secondary research revealed a crucial demand for assistance in selecting the right wheelchair, underscoring the vital importance of a perfect fit for users. Let me now delve into the details of our research process to provide a clearer understanding.
1.3 Literature Review
Our research involves detailed literature reviews to understand wheelchair accessibility challenges and the principles of accessible design for users with disabilities. We also aim to explore the assistive technology industry and its impact, focusing on essential design considerations and industry dynamics.
"Curb Cut Effect"
The curb cut effect is the phenomenon of disability-friendly features being used and appreciated by a larger group than the people they were designed for. For example, many hearing people use closed captioning.
(UX Collective)
"Assistive Products"
The primary purpose of assistive products is to maintain or improve an individual’s functioning and independence, thereby promoting their well-being.
Examples of assistive products include hearing aids, wheelchairs, spectacles, prostheses and devices that support memory, among many others.
(WHO)
"Facilitate Independence"
Appropriately selected adaptations and AT can make a significant contribution to the provision of living environments which facilitate independence. They can both substitute for traditional formal care services and supplement these services in a cost-effective way.
(CDC)
1.4 Observations
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From 14 Un/Structured Interviews
The demographic ranged from younger people to the aging population primarily assisted mobility users, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Durable Medical Equipment vendor.
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Online Research
We actively gather a diverse range of opinions and posts from online platforms such as Quora, shopping review sites, and YouTube, enabling us to access a wealth of fresh and extensive ideas.
5.0
Poor access to wheelchairs
Lack of Affordable Options
I wish there were affordable wheelchair options with advanced mobility features. Feels like I have to choose between what I need and what I can afford.
- Claire, 83
Cost of the right wheelchair
This significant gap underscores a critical need for enhanced accessibility in the wheelchair market.
-Camilo, 32
Complicated Process
Many assistive products require pre- and post purchase services involving trained personnel – services that should be integrated into health, education or social services rather than being linked to the standalone purchase of a product from a local shop.
- Global Report on Assistive Technology , pg 42, WHO report 2018
Wheelchair Research requires time and effort
Thank you! it was a great overview for what I need to consider...I was unaware of the leg angles options
- Brian Squeeze, YouTube comment under a wheelchair buying guide video
Need for wheelchair buying support
How do I choose the right wheelchair?
-Multiple threads on Quora
1.2 Main Target Users
Our research has pinpointed three crucial user groups as the focal point of our project. Wheelchair users and short-term mobility seekers will be our primary focus, while carers will receive a secondary yet significant level of attention.
Wheelchair Users
Individuals ranging in age from 16 to seniors, all of whom rely on wheelchairs for mobility and independence in their daily lives.
Short-Term Mobility Seekers
Individuals requiring short-term mobility solutions due to injuries, surgeries, or other temporary conditions.
Carers
Dedicated individuals who assist and support wheelchair users in their daily needs and activities. This group will receive secondary focus, as their needs will be naturally addressed through our design considerations for the primary user groups.
1.5 How Might We...
2.1 Persona
To precisely identify and comprehend the unique needs and traits of our target audience, we have created three user personas: Veena, Camilo, and Noori.
2.2 User Journey
To understand our users' experiences and interactions with our product or service, from the initial engagement to sustained usage, we have outlined the following user journey. In this project, our emphasis will be on the first half of this journey, while the latter half will serve as a subsequent step for comprehensive experiment optimization.
2.3 Top Pain Points
Building upon the user personas and user journey previously outlined, we have further identified the following key pain points.
2.4 Competitor Analysis
Building upon the user personas and user journey previously outlined, we have further identified the following key pain points.
3.1 Design Concept
Based on the key pain points identified through our sense-making process, we have developed a concept to enhance the shopping experience in Amazon's wheelchair marketplace.
3.2 Prototype Sketches
3.3 User Flow
3.4 Design Spec
4.1 Happy Path Showcase
4.2 Further Consideration
4.3 Next Steps
