Product
In conjunction with the Disaster Management Initiative, a partnership between Carnegie Mellon University and NASA IRG (Intelligent Robotics Group), I conducted product research and prototyping for Responder Maps. Envisioned as a mapping tool (or common operating plan) to assist first responders, Responder Maps addresses constraints faced by fire agencies operating across multiple jurisdictions with incomplete situational awareness. As a UX researcher, my activities were aimed at analysing workflows to better define the product and validate initial directions. While funding for the project did not extend to building the final product, the research shared with working groups at NASA and CMU supplied insights for dealing with multiple jurisdictions at various levels of technical capability.
User Research
The following artifacts and activities were employed to validate user needs and define core features and functionality:
- User Personas. Short write-ups capturing profiles of first responders engaged in tactical planning and operations.
- User Interviews and Testing. Informal Q&A conducted with first responders engaged in and coordinating onsite activities.
- Storyboards and Prototypes. Low- and high-fidelity static mockups and walkthrus of user scenarios presented in storyboard fashion to validate and test UI concepts and ideas.
- Product Brief. Animated video referencing user scenarios and mockups to elicit feedback and validate findings from stakeholders and partners.
Storyboards and Mockups
Used in early stage requirements gathering, artifacts including swimlane diagrams, storyboards, and mockups served as discussion points for evaluating services and solutions.
Product Brief
The animated video, written and produced as part of the design/development process, served as an introduction and product demo for prospective partners.
