A Quick Summary
The CAT AR design challenge was a component of the World Usability Day Challenge. Students were organized into four groups, each comprising three designers, assigned to develop an AR application for CAT mechanics. Following multiple review sessions with CAT UX designers and a user testing session, each group presented their design in a 20-minute session.
The Challenge
The application, leveraging AR and/or 3D modeling, aimed to assist CAT technicians in real-time machine repairs. It was designed to seamlessly sync with the existing CAT part library for enhanced functionality.
Our Solution
Our design emphasized offering users two interchangeable paths, allowing them to opt for either a 3D view or an AR view based on their preferences and how they intended to use the application.
Prior to commencing the application design, our initial focus was comprehending the typical routine of machine repair undertaken by users. We engaged in a continuous process of questioning, seeking insights into the daily practices and workflows of mechanics to inform our design approach.
Following our in-depth understanding of the mechanics' routine, we created a Journey Map encapsulating crucial steps in the machine repair process. This comprehensive map delineates stages like awareness, consideration, troubleshooting, and shopping for replacement parts. It highlights various touchpoints where users interact with the product throughout the journey, providing a holistic view of the user experience.
Our Design
To maximize functionality for mechanics, our design introduced two distinct sections within the application, allowing users to choose between them. This approach aimed to offer tailored solutions and cater to diverse needs within the mechanics' workflow.
The 3D view catered to mechanics stationed at a desktop, facilitating machine diagnostics by enabling them to manipulate and examine the equipment from angles not feasible on the actual machine. This feature enhanced the precision of analysis and troubleshooting.
The AR view seamlessly suited mechanics working in the field on the actual machine. Additionally, we integrated a streamlined purchasing feature within the application, allowing mechanics to directly acquire the needed parts, enhancing efficiency and convenience.
User Testing
Our design was showcased at a full-day event sponsored by CAT, providing teams with the opportunity to conduct user testing. Teams received valuable feedback, enabling them to make iterative improvements to their designs throughout the event.
In our design evaluation, each of the three users was allotted 20 minutes to navigate through our application. Assigned specific challenges, they were tasked with completing these objectives within the given timeframe to assess the usability and effectiveness of the design.
Following the initial round of User Testing, each group had an hour to implement any necessary changes to their application. Subsequently, users revisited each application and participated in a voting process to determine their favorite among the designs.
Upon winning, we proceeded to design a version for the Microsoft HoloLens. During a 30-minute presentation, we detailed our experience and problem-solving process throughout the project, highlighting the evolution of our design and its adaptability for the Microsoft HoloLens platform.
