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ho•bo dB

Designed an app for Ann Arbor's homeless, tracking progress, aiding organizations, and gathering data for urgent care; prioritizes access, privacy, & data protection.

Back

ho•bo dB

Designed an app for Ann Arbor's homeless, tracking progress, aiding organizations, and gathering data for urgent care; prioritizes access, privacy, & data protection.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities

Brainstorming
Design Strategy
Ideation
Rapid Prototyping
Visual Design
UX design
UX research
Product Design
Information Architecture
UI Design
Interaction Design
Brainstorming
Design Strategy
Ideation
Rapid Prototyping
Visual Design
UX design
UX research
Product Design
Information Architecture
UI Design
Interaction Design
Brainstorming
Design Strategy
Ideation
Rapid Prototyping
Visual Design
UX design
UX research
Product Design
Information Architecture
UI Design
Interaction Design

Tools

Tools

FigmaMiroAdobe Creative SuiteAdobe PhotoshopAdobe IllustratorProtopie

Timeline:

Timeline:

Overall: 14 weeks
Discovery & Research: 7+ weeks
Design & testing: 6 weeks

Overview

Developing an app to centralize medical data for homeless individuals in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, could address the health challenges they face. This transparent tool would connect the government, social organizations, and the homeless for improved medical care, tracking progress, and identifying areas needing attention. Restricted access ensures data security and privacy, ensuring fair and accurate benefits.

Problem

There hasn't been any particularly viable solution up until now to take care of the healthcare issues of the (about) 444 homeless people in Washtenaw County. The healthcare system has both advantages and drawbacks. The homeless are the most seriously affected because they cannot afford medical care and endure harsh weather conditions while having severe medical disorders.

Solution

In response to the pressing healthcare concerns faced by the homeless population of Washtenaw County, particularly in Ann Arbor, a comprehensive mobile application solution is proposed. This application, designed to function as a centralized database, aims to provide a holistic view of each homeless individual's medical history, current health status, and immediate needs. By collaborating with local government authorities and existing volunteering organizations, the app can serve as a bridge between various stakeholders, ensuring efficient allocation of resources, timely medical interventions, and a transparent flow of information.

Overview

Developing an app to centralize medical data for homeless individuals in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, could address the health challenges they face. This transparent tool would connect the government, social organizations, and the homeless for improved medical care, tracking progress, and identifying areas needing attention. Restricted access ensures data security and privacy, ensuring fair and accurate benefits.

Problem

There hasn't been any particularly viable solution up until now to take care of the healthcare issues of the (about) 444 homeless people in Washtenaw County. The healthcare system has both advantages and drawbacks. The homeless are the most seriously affected because they cannot afford medical care and endure harsh weather conditions while having severe medical disorders.

Solution

In response to the pressing healthcare concerns faced by the homeless population of Washtenaw County, particularly in Ann Arbor, a comprehensive mobile application solution is proposed. This application, designed to function as a centralized database, aims to provide a holistic view of each homeless individual's medical history, current health status, and immediate needs. By collaborating with local government authorities and existing volunteering organizations, the app can serve as a bridge between various stakeholders, ensuring efficient allocation of resources, timely medical interventions, and a transparent flow of information.

Overview

Developing an app to centralize medical data for homeless individuals in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, could address the health challenges they face. This transparent tool would connect the government, social organizations, and the homeless for improved medical care, tracking progress, and identifying areas needing attention. Restricted access ensures data security and privacy, ensuring fair and accurate benefits.

Problem

There hasn't been any particularly viable solution up until now to take care of the healthcare issues of the (about) 444 homeless people in Washtenaw County. The healthcare system has both advantages and drawbacks. The homeless are the most seriously affected because they cannot afford medical care and endure harsh weather conditions while having severe medical disorders.

Solution

In response to the pressing healthcare concerns faced by the homeless population of Washtenaw County, particularly in Ann Arbor, a comprehensive mobile application solution is proposed. This application, designed to function as a centralized database, aims to provide a holistic view of each homeless individual's medical history, current health status, and immediate needs. By collaborating with local government authorities and existing volunteering organizations, the app can serve as a bridge between various stakeholders, ensuring efficient allocation of resources, timely medical interventions, and a transparent flow of information.

Target Audience

The Design Process involved research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and implementation. The process was iterative, meaning that we went back and forth between steps to make changes or adjustments based on feedback and testing. The goal of the design process was to create an app that was intuitive to use with almost zero learning curve, at the same time aesthetically pleasing and invoking emotions similar to that of interacting with a caretaker.


The Design Process involved research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and implementation. The process was iterative, meaning that we went back and forth between steps to make changes or adjustments based on feedback and testing. The goal of the design process was to create an app that was intuitive to use with almost zero learning curve, at the same time aesthetically pleasing and invoking emotions similar to that of interacting with a caretaker.


The Design Process involved research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and implementation. The process was iterative, meaning that we went back and forth between steps to make changes or adjustments based on feedback and testing. The goal of the design process was to create an app that was intuitive to use with almost zero learning curve, at the same time aesthetically pleasing and invoking emotions similar to that of interacting with a caretaker.


Target Solution

A User Flow Is A Visual Representation Of The Steps And Actions A User Takes To Complete A Task On A Website Or Mobile App, Mapping Out Their Journey Through The Product And Helping To Identify problems in The User Experience

A User Flow Is A Visual Representation Of The Steps And Actions A User Takes To Complete A Task On A Website Or Mobile App, Mapping Out Their Journey Through The Product And Helping To Identify problems in The User Experience

A User Flow Is A Visual Representation Of The Steps And Actions A User Takes To Complete A Task On A Website Or Mobile App, Mapping Out Their Journey Through The Product And Helping To Identify problems in The User Experience

Design Process

The Design Procedure comprised inquiry, brainstorming, model creation, examination, and application. The procedure was cyclic, implying a repeated return to previous stages for refinements based on reviews and trials.

The Design Procedure comprised inquiry, brainstorming, model creation, examination, and application. The procedure was cyclic, implying a repeated return to previous stages for refinements based on reviews and trials.

The Design Procedure comprised inquiry, brainstorming, model creation, examination, and application. The procedure was cyclic, implying a repeated return to previous stages for refinements based on reviews and trials.

01

Needs Assessment

  • Identify specific requirements and challenges faced by the homeless population and volunteering organizations.

  • Define the scope and objectives of the application.

02

Design & Prototyping

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

03

Collaboration & Integration

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

04

Development & Deployment

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

05

Evaluation & Iteration

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

01

Needs Assessment

  • Identify specific requirements and challenges faced by the homeless population and volunteering organizations.

  • Define the scope and objectives of the application.

02

Design & Prototyping

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

03

Collaboration & Integration

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

04

Development & Deployment

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

05

Evaluation & Iteration

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

01

Needs Assessment

  • Identify specific requirements and challenges faced by the homeless population and volunteering organizations.

  • Define the scope and objectives of the application.

02

Design & Prototyping

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

03

Collaboration & Integration

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

04

Development & Deployment

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

05

Evaluation & Iteration

We conducted user interviews, surveys, and analyzed in-app analytics to understand the pain points and user needs. We also studied competitor apps and industry trends to gather insights

User Interviews

To gain insights into the specific needs, challenges, and expectations of the target audience, a series of user interviews were conducted with representatives from the homeless community and volunteer organizations.

Homeless Individuals

Participant
Selection:

  • The desire for consistent access to healthcare services.

  • Concerns about privacy and data security.

  • Need for clear information on available resources and support systems.

  • Offers personalized cannabis dosing and strain recommendations based on individual physiology, genetics, and metabolic pathways.

  • Healthcare providers with experience in cannabis treatments.

  • Experts in pharmacology, AI-driven healthcare solutions, and mental health.

Volunteering Organizations

Interview
Structure

  • Recognition of the need for a centralized platform for data management.

  • Emphasis on the importance of collaboration and coordination among different organizations.

  • Suggestions for integrating additional features like appointment scheduling, health awareness resources, and emergency support.

  • Current challenges faced in managing cannabis treatments.

  • Desired features in a medication self-management app.

  • Preferences for tracking, and monitoring, features.

  • Concerns related to adverse reactions, panic attacks, and emergency assistance.

MEtri

Metric Title 1.

25%

Metric Title 2.

84%

Metric Title 3.

Comparative Analysis

Various local organizations such as Wolverine Street Medicine, Saint Joseph Mercy Health System, Ozone House Shelter, and Delonis Clinic are some of the most active organizations working for the homeless people in Ann Arbor.

Alpha House Interfaith Hospitality Network

Firstly, taking the example of Alpha House Interfaith Hospitality Network, they are actively working on the issues of homelessness, but are only limited to rehousing, children's services, and home-based support and mainly cater the infants and children. If a collaboration with them is done, along with healthcare of the homeless as well as the children, a clear database to work on will facilitate the issues in a better manner compared to just working randomly. With a clear record base, children's medical checkups, and vaccinations can be managed more effortlessly and effectively. Also, better management of funds is possible as mentioned in our proposed idea. Our proposed plan shall transparently keep records of the fund collection and their utilization which is missing in their work.

Wolverine Street Medicine

Wolverine Street Medicine works very superficially on things such as street runs, education, donations, local clinics, etc. As they are actively working on the local health clinics for the homeless, a common database as proposed in the idea would facilitate their work stronger as they will have better access to information about them and will be able to give them appropriate treatment. In our plan, data regarding their medical check-ups along with their issues will be provided. Individuals are classified from low medical risk zones to intermediate and high zones which would help in the facilitation of better treatment according to their needs.

Shelter Association of Washtenaw County

The Shelter Association of Washtenaw County is working closely with the proposed plan by organizing health awareness camps, but the gap between an awareness camp and medical care facilities is far from each other. Camps include encouragement for healthcare; however, our proposed plan actively works for the persons who need treatment. Things such as health coverage plans, and separate vaccination records for each of them, are some of the things which need attention and care. Something that none of the organizations have been able to do so far.

Ozone House

Lastly, at Ozone House, mostly counseling regarding health care is done which is not very much sufficient for the homeless to address their existing medical services. In the plan, along with collaboration from them and organizations as such, data records, appointments for medical checkups, vaccinations scheduling, and health plans, are things that are missing from their work which can be done through designing an app, maintaining the data, and much more.

User Journey

To date, there hasn't been a comprehensive solution for the medical needs of approximately 444 homeless individuals in Washtenaw County. The homeless face challenges in accessing treatments for various diseases, including HIV/AIDS, lung diseases, skin infections, and substance use. With only one homeless shelter, "Ozone House," in the county, addressing their medical needs is crucial. Currently, the volunteering organization struggles to effectively work on medical issues and arrange resources for treatments. To address this, I propose developing an application in collaboration with local authorities and volunteering organizations, providing subsidized or free medical services to the homeless.

Personas

We wanted to form a deeper understanding of our users' goals, needs, experiences, and behaviors. So, we created 4 personas for each of our user segments. They were based on user interviews and surveys, and we kept updating them throughout the project as we gathered more data. We used these personas whenever we wanted to step out of ourselves and reconsider our initial ideas.

We wanted to form a deeper understanding of our users' goals, needs, experiences, and behaviors. So, we created 4 personas for each of our user segments. They were based on user interviews and surveys, and we kept updating them throughout the project as we gathered more data. We used these personas whenever we wanted to step out of ourselves and reconsider our initial ideas.

We wanted to form a deeper understanding of our users' goals, needs, experiences, and behaviors. So, we created 4 personas for each of our user segments. They were based on user interviews and surveys, and we kept updating them throughout the project as we gathered more data. We used these personas whenever we wanted to step out of ourselves and reconsider our initial ideas.

Sketchings

Storyboarding

QOC

Design Rationale

Approach 1

Participant
Selection:

  • Manual Data Collection: Gather data on homeless individuals in Washtenaw County by visiting and identifying people in need.

  • App Development: Create an application to store detailed medical histories, accessible by organizations and medical professionals.

  • Age-Based Classification: Organize data into sections for children, young adults, and the elderly, making it easier to address specific medical needs.

  • Specialized Monitoring: Assign different medical professionals to each age group to provide care.

  • Health Monitoring & Education: Volunteer organizations track health improvements and educate individuals on diseases and hygiene.

  • Offers personalized cannabis dosing and strain recommendations based on individual physiology, genetics, and metabolic pathways.

  • Healthcare providers with experience in cannabis treatments.

  • Experts in pharmacology, AI-driven healthcare solutions, and mental health.

Rationale 1

Interview
Structure

  • Accuracy: Manual data collection ensures precise identification of individuals needing urgent medical care.

  • Efficiency: The app facilitates data entry and analysis for strategic planning by medical and volunteering professionals.

  • Targeted Care: Age-based classification simplifies record access and health status assessment, aiding in tailored medical responses.

  • Specialized Care: Different medical professionals handle specific age groups, enhancing care effectiveness.

  • Strategic Monitoring: Age classification aids in focused health monitoring and education, addressing specific needs like vaccinations and disease awareness.

  • Current challenges faced in managing cannabis treatments.

  • Desired features in a medication self-management app.

  • Preferences for tracking, and monitoring, features.

  • Concerns related to adverse reactions, panic attacks, and emergency assistance.

Approach 2

Participant
Selection:

  • Data Collection via Organizations: Gather information from volunteering organizations and shelters to build a comprehensive database.

  • App Development: Create an application using the data provided by these organizations, including medical records and essential needs.

  • Risk-Based Classification: Categorize individuals by medical risk levels—low, medium, and high—for targeted care.

  • Specialized Monitoring: Assign medical professionals to monitor individuals based on their risk level, prioritizing care accordingly.

  • Health Monitoring & Improvement: Volunteer organizations track health improvements and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.

  • Offers personalized cannabis dosing and strain recommendations based on individual physiology, genetics, and metabolic pathways.

  • Healthcare providers with experience in cannabis treatments.

  • Experts in pharmacology, AI-driven healthcare solutions, and mental health.

Rationale 2

Interview
Structure

  • Efficiency: Leveraging existing data from active volunteering organizations reduces manual work and increases accuracy.

  • Accurate Data: Organizations continuously working with homeless populations provide reliable information for medical assistance.

  • Targeted Care: Medical professionals and organizations can deliver care based on individuals' health statuses and requirements.

  • Prioritized Attention: Risk-based classification ensures that high-risk individuals receive prioritized medical care and supervision.

  • Effective Monitoring: Classification by medical needs allows for effective health monitoring, ensuring high-risk individuals get more attention.

  • Current challenges faced in managing cannabis treatments.

  • Desired features in a medication self-management app.

  • Preferences for tracking, and monitoring, features.

  • Concerns related to adverse reactions, panic attacks, and emergency assistance.

Approach 3

Participant
Selection:

  • Government Data Collection: Use statistics from governmental organizations to build a database for the app, leveraging existing data for quick implementation.

  • App Development: Create the application based on government-provided records, ensuring accurate and comprehensive data.

  • Categorized Data: Organize data into categories such as homeless households, young adults, veterans, and children, based on government records.

  • Collaborative Development: Different governmental bodies develop specific categories within the app to address varied medical care needs.

  • Health Monitoring: Government and medical professionals monitor health statuses and provide tailored care based on group classifications.

  • Offers personalized cannabis dosing and strain recommendations based on individual physiology, genetics, and metabolic pathways.

  • Healthcare providers with experience in cannabis treatments.

  • Experts in pharmacology, AI-driven healthcare solutions, and mental health.

Rationale 3

Interview
Structure

  • Accuracy: Governmental organizations offer precise data on health and living conditions, backed by funding for medical needs.

  • Authenticity: Government records are the most reliable source of information about the homeless population and their medical requirements.

  • Clarified Needs: Segregation based on government data helps clarify medical needs according to groups.

  • Tailored Treatment: Collaborative efforts between government bodies and medical professionals enhance treatment by addressing specific needs of different categories.

  • Improved Collaboration: Group-based data segregation fosters better collaboration between medical professionals and governmental organizations

  • Current challenges faced in managing cannabis treatments.

  • Desired features in a medication self-management app.

  • Preferences for tracking, and monitoring, features.

  • Concerns related to adverse reactions, panic attacks, and emergency assistance.

Wireframes & Prototypes

Wireframes

Using Figma, I translated my first sketches into low-fidelity wireframes. Then, I improved them by adding a few relevant stock images and copies provided by the marketing team. At this stage, the wireframes were defined enough for some user testing. Based on 4 tests, I’ve made a few alternations and moved on to creating high-fidelity prototypes.

Wireframes

Low-Fi Prototypes

UI Design

Figma Prototype

Get in touch!


If you are in pursuit of a designer committed to turning challenges into delightful experiences, let's talk!


iamhtk@umich.edu

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© 2024 • Handmade with Figma, Framer, and love ❤️

Get in touch!


If you are in pursuit of a designer committed to turning challenges into delightful experiences, let's talk!


iamhtk@umich.edu

EXPLORE

Logo
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© 2024 • Handmade with Figma, Framer, and love ❤️

Get in touch!


If you are in pursuit of a designer committed to turning challenges into delightful experiences, let's talk!


iamhtk@umich.edu

EXPLORE

Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
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© 2024 • Handmade with Figma, Framer, and love ❤️