BACKGROUND
Overview
With the rise of plastic garbage, ineffective waste collection systems, and a general lack of knowledge about recycling procedures, Cities in Nigeria have faced ever-greater waste management issues in recent years. With the intention of tackling these issues head-on, encouraging recycling, cutting down on plastic waste, and improving general garbage collection efficiency, the mobile app Ecomarket was created and designed.
The Story
The story behind the Ecomarket app unfolds as a passionate response to the escalating waste management challenges in Nigerian cities. Driven by a collective concern regarding the environmental impacts of plastic garbage and ineffective collection mechanisms, we set out to develop a comprehensive resolution.
With a focus on user-centric design and thorough research, Ecomarket was created to meet the needs of recycling incentives, efficient garbage collection routes, and community participation. Inspired by local initiatives and driven by a commitment to collaboration, the app was launched as a pilot program. We intend to foster a vision of a sustainable future in the coming years.
The Problem
Key issues in Nigeria's waste management are low public participation in recycling initiatives, lack of knowledge and education about responsible waste disposal, the proliferation of plastic waste and single-use plastics, limited citizen engagement in recycling efforts and ineffective waste collection routes.
The Solution
Ecomarket's design solution encompasses a user-centric approach, featuring a simple and intuitive interface that provides users with comprehensive information on recycling options, collection schedules, and nearby recycling centers. The inclusion of educational content aims to raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic waste and the benefits of recycling. Real-time tracking features empower waste collectors to adapt to changing collection demands, ensuring timely and efficient services.
The implementation of a gamified reward system incentivizes users to recycle, earning points that can be redeemed for discounts. Waste collectors are also rewarded based on the efficiency of their routes and the volume of recycled materials collected, creating a comprehensive and engaging solution to waste management challenges.
Design Process
My design process started by identifying the problems that the design aims to address before proceeding to conduct my research, gathered the necessary information and insights. Based on the research and analysis, I was able to come up with intuitive concepts for the design by creating some sketches through brainstorming. Sketches were made to focus on the overall layout, functionality, navigation and key functions of the app, after which I prototyped to allow early testing, validation of ideas and meaningful user experience. Finally, tested the app to gather feedback and make necessary improvements.
In summary, my design process was broken down into a non-linear form;
ROLE & DURATION
Role
Sole UI/UX Designer
I was responsible for the research, UI Documentation, provide assets, UI audits, flow documentation and user testing for both the website and web app while collaborating closely with other team members to develop the product. I ensure my designs are well implemented by developers.
Duration
4 weeks: October 2023 - November 2023
Week 1 - 2 Product Ideation
Week 2 Research and Wireframe
Week 3 Brand Identity and Hifi Design
Week 4 Protoype, Usability testing, Feedback
Research and Analysis
I conducted in-depth multifaceted research to gather relevant data, insights and information. The team conducted interviews with a diverse range of stakeholders, including citizens, waste collectors, and recycling facilities. These interviews sought to capture insights into their experiences, challenges, and perspectives related to waste management.
We distributed surveys and questionnaires to a broader audience to gather quantitative data and identify common trends, preferences, and behaviors regarding waste disposal practices and recycling habits.
We also spent time in various locations to observe waste collection processes, disposal patterns, and the overall dynamics of the existing waste management infrastructure. This on-site observation provided valuable context and a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced.
Understanding user behavior was crucial for designing an engaging and effective app. Behavioral research was conducted to identify motivators and barriers related to recycling, as well as preferences in user interfaces.
Quantitative Research
In order to further understand the challenges users were facing in recycling waste products, we decided to create a survey of users who have different knowledge of recycling.
Some of the questions on the survey
- How often do you currently engage in recycling activities?
- What challenges do you face in disposing of waste, particularly in terms of recycling?
- What would motivate you to participate more actively in recycling initiatives?
- Would you like to recycle again if there was a better and nicer to do it?
- If given a choice, what type of incentive would encourage you to recycle more?
Personas
User Persona 1
Persona 1: Grace Chukwu
- Age: 28
- Gender: Female
- Occupation: Marketing Executive
- Location: Lagos, Nigeria
- Income Level: Moderate
Internet Proficiency
Proficient user, regularly engages in social media, online shopping, and stays updated on current events.
Background
Grace is a young professional working in the bustling city of Lagos. With a background in marketing, she is tech-savvy and relies heavily on the internet for both work and personal activities. Grace is environmentally conscious and actively seeks ways to contribute to sustainable practices in her community.
Goals
- Stay informed about sustainable living practices.
- Easily access information on local recycling options.
- Find ways to minimize her plastic waste.
- Connect with like-minded individuals in her community.
- Incorporate eco-friendly habits into her daily routine.
Frustrations
- Limited awareness about local recycling initiatives.
- Inconsistent information on sustainable living practices.
- Difficulty finding local businesses that support eco-friendly products.
Insights
Grace values convenience and seeks digital solutions that simplify her journey toward sustainable living. She is likely to engage with an app that provides clear and reliable information on local recycling options and fosters a sense of community around eco-friendly practices.
User Persona 2
Persona 2: Joseph Chimezie
- Age: 35
- Gender: Male
- Occupation: Taxi Driver
- Location: Lagos, Nigeria
- Income Level: Lower-Moderate
Internet Proficiency
Basic internet user, primarily for communication and occasional news updates.
Background
Joseph is a hardworking taxi driver navigating the busy streets of Lagos. While not extensively connected online, he recognizes the importance of responsible waste disposal. Joseph is interested in participating in recycling initiatives but lacks clear guidance on how to get involved.
Goals
- Understand the basics of recycling and its benefits.
- Receive notifications on waste collection schedules in his area.
- Find convenient drop-off points for recyclables.
- Connect with neighbors for collective recycling efforts.
- Earn incentives for actively participating in recycling.
Frustrations
- Lack of accessible information on recycling practices.
- Inability to track waste collection schedules.
- Limited options for recycling drop-off locations.
Insights
Joseph is likely to engage with a user-friendly app that simplifies recycling information, sends regular notifications about waste collection schedules, and provides straightforward guidance on where to drop off recyclables. Incentives play a crucial role in motivating Joseph to actively participate in recycling initiatives. The app should be designed to accommodate users with varying levels of internet proficiency.
Empathy Map
Following our insights and information gathered from our research, we were able to put together an empathy map to show what people say, do, feel and think.
SEES
- Sees overflowing community bins with mixed waste.
- Notices a lack of separate bins for recycling in the neighborhood.
- Observes neighbors disposing of waste in a haphazard manner.
HEAR
- Hears complaints from neighbors about irregular waste collection.
- Hears discussions about the environmental impact of plastic waste.
- Hears conflicting information about recycling options in the community.
SAY AND DO
- Says: “I wish they would collect the waste more regularly. It's frustrating.”
- Does: Actively engages in conversations with neighbors about the need for improved waste management. Shares concerns on social media.
THINK AND FEEL
- Thinks: “There's so much confusion about recycling. I don't even know where to start.”
- Feels: Frustrated about the inconvenience, concerned about the environmental impact, a sense of responsibility to contribute to a cleaner environment.
Pain Points Noticed
There is an Inconvenient waste disposal, lack of clear recycling options, community frustration.
Gains Noticed
They desire for a more efficient waste management system, increased awareness about recycling benefits.
User Journey Map
User journey mapping is the visualization of the entire process which users would go through to accomplish a specific goal with the platform.
Style Guide
For consistency and a good user interface we created a style guide for Ecomarket app.
Typeface
Aa
K2D
Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz
Bold
Semibold
Medium
Regular
Colours
User Flow
The user flow from the moment the app launches until they have explored all of its features and taken certain actions is reflected in the user flow.
Information Architecture
The user flow from the moment the app launches until they have explored all of its features and taken certain actions is reflected in the user flow.
Wireframes
Wireframes shows the skeletal framework of the app that will help us get an understanding of the functions and elements before creating the hifi design.
UI Design
The UI Design has been made really easy and simple to use while prioritizing aesthetics, minimalism, usability and accessibility in the app design.
Reflection: What I learned
- User Education is Crucial: Incorporating educational content is essential. Many users may not be fully aware of recycling practices, and providing easily accessible information helps in raising awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility.
- Simplicity Enhances User Adoption: A simple and intuitive design helps users navigate the app seamlessly, find information effortlessly, and engage in recycling activities without unnecessary complexities.
- Incentives Drive User Engagement: Implementing a gamified reward system significantly boosts user engagement. Offering incentives, such as redeemable points for recycling activities, encourages users to participate actively, contributing to a more sustainable environment.
