SxS Riders
An app designed for Kawasaki SxS riders to track vehicle health, stay connected with fellow adventurers, and capture every ride along the way.
Role: UX Designer
Overview
Mobile App
Kawasaki's proof-of-concept for the Side-by-Side (SxS) community
Key Features
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Real-time vehicle health monitoring
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Social media integration
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Comprehensive ride recording
Goal
​Enable users to stay connected with their community and access essential vehicle information
Role & Process
Define the Problem
User Needs
The previous app provided inaccurate vehicle information and unreliable ride recording. Users desired features such as turn-by-turn navigation and better route mapping, as well as improved ride recording capabilities
Market Opportunity
With the rise of digital keys and growing SxS popularity, especially in Japan, there was an opportunity to develop an app that not only replaced the existing app but also added valuable new features to engage and support SxS enthusiasts.
User Research
Research Methodology
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Stakeholder interviews
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Competitor analysis
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User Testing
Insights Revealed
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Gaps in the existing app were revealed and identified the need for clearer visuals and error prevention, especially for high-speed SxS operations
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Stakeholders also emphasized the app’s potential in the Japanese market.
Wireframing & Prototyping
High-Fidelity
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Due to the swift nature of proof-of-concept projects, high-fidelity wireframes were quickly developed with a focus on usability for SxS users
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Design decisions included incorporating error prevention measures to ensure features are accessible only when the vehicle is stopped, improving safety and user experience.
Prototype Test Runs
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The design process was iterative, incorporating feedback from prototype test runs with actual SxS vehicles
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Adjustments were made based on user feedback, particularly around visual clarity and functionality while moving at high speeds
App Features
Vehicle Health Monitoring
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Provides maintenance reminders and detailed information on maintenance items such as brake pads, ensuring users stay informed about their vehicle's condition
Social Connectivity
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Allows users to connect through community groups, plan events, and communicate
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This feature fosters a sense of community among SxS enthusiasts
Ride Recording
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Users can record rides, which are displayed on a map with detailed metrics including:
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Distance
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Speed
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Acceleration
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Engine RPM
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Users can also add manual inputs such as keywords, weather, and photos, and share their rides on social media
Reflection
User Benefit
The app would centralize vehicle information and social interaction, offering a comprehensive tool for SxS enthusiasts to manage their vehicles and engage with the community
Business Impact
For Kawasaki, the app would not only replace an underperforming solution but also reinforce their commitment to customer loyalty and innovation in the SxS market.
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The project’s success contributed to securing a significant ¥100,000,000 contract for my agency, underscoring the value and impact of the design
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​This opened the door to expanding the app’s concept to jet skis and introducing a new poker run feature​
Challenges & Learnings
There were many challenges to this project. Given the nature of proof-of-concepts, there was very limited time to iterate and there was a fast turnaround time.
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Navigating communication barriers with stakeholders in Japan was challenging and led to numerous late-night meetings and extensive feedback.
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This experience taught me to be more proactive in anticipating stakeholder requests and improving iteration speed to streamline the design process.