Winner - Philips Service Design Challenge 2023
What's Pet Care to Pet Owners
User Research
Why
There is a critical need for comprehensive support for caregivers of terminally ill family members, particularly those dealing with cancer. The emotional, mental, and logistical challenges faced by caregivers during this difficult time often go unaddressed, and Solace aims to fill this gap by providing holistic care and assistance.
What
Solace is an award-winning service design project developed as part of the Philips Service Design Challenge 2023. With a focus on transforming the lives of caregivers of terminally ill family members, Solace aims to provide comprehensive care and support during challenging life transitions, particularly for those affected by cancer.
How
Solace is intended for individuals who shoulder the responsibility of caregiving and require support in navigating the complex challenges that arise during end-of-life care. Solace acknowledges the crucial role played by caregivers and strives to empower them with the necessary wellness resources and care they deserve.
Why
The purpose of this user research project was to gain a profound understanding of the fundamental concerns that drive pet owners in their pet care journey. By investigating whether factors like finances, time availability, or access to relevant information take precedence, the project aimed to uncover valuable insights that could inform the design of a service aimed at enhancing the pet care experience.
What
The research identifies five pivotal insights that shed light on critical aspects of pet owners' journeys. These insights, derived from the extensive research process, not only revealed gaps and challenges in the current pet care landscape but also laid the foundation for defining specific product opportunity areas. The study established essential criteria for designing solutions that effectively address the needs and aspirations of pet owners, ultimately aiming to enhance their pet care journey.
How
Conducted over a semester at Carnegie Mellon, this project employed a comprehensive five-stage research methodology. Beginning with an initial exploration phase, the study progressed through online surveys, in-depth interview sessions, contextual inquiry, and collaborative co-design sessions. These research techniques were employed to delve deep into the experiences, perspectives, and pain points of pet owners, providing a holistic view of their needs and preferences.
