Design Process
the problem
Growing up in Peru, I witnessed firsthand the critical issue of water scarcity and the urgent need for sustainable water management. Many regions face severe water shortages, which threaten both the environment and people's quality of life. Despite awareness, there is a lack of effective tools to help individuals monitor and reduce their water usage, highlighting the need for user-friendly solutions that promote conservation.
the solution
Drips is an innovative shower system equipped with advanced features and an intuitive digital platform designed to optimize water usage. Through a user-centered design approach, Drips makes it easy for users to track, manage, and minimize their water consumption, encouraging sustainable habits without compromising on comfort. The seamless integration of technology and design ensures an engaging experience that fosters healthier, more eco-friendly daily routines.
user research
To understand the challenges of water scarcity, user interviews were conducted, gathering insights from individuals in affected regions, including Peru, where droughts limit water supply. Surveys on water consumption habits revealed common patterns and areas for improvement. This primary research was further supported by global data on water usage trends, providing a comprehensive view of the issue.
“My family lives in an area affected by drought. It hasn’t rained enough for months, and the rivers are dry, so we only have a small well to supply water to the entire community.”
insights
1
Lack of knowledge
People lack the motivation to reduce water usage at home because they underestimate their consumption and don't know where to begin.
2
Behavior change is complicated
People are often resistant to change, and even when they want to make changes, they may struggle to follow through.
3
Combining behavior & technology
Current solutions primarily focus on water-saving technologies but often overlook the importance of encouraging behavior change.
user persona
Emily’s persona is based on insights gathered during user research, focusing on key themes: a lack of knowledge about efficient water usage, the challenges of changing established behaviors, and the potential for technology to encourage sustainable habits. By prioritizing this persona, I could design solutions that addressed these core issues, making it easier for users to monitor and manage their water consumption while fostering positive, long-term behavior changes.
design ideation
Form explorations
Lo-Fi prototype testing
In the usability study, participants were asked to time various tasks they perform in the shower, such as rinsing, lathering, and shampooing. The analysis revealed that high-flow water was only necessary for about 20% of the total shower time, highlighting significant opportunities to reduce water usage without compromising the shower experience.
usability study 1
usability study 2
In the usability study, participants tested various feedback loops—haptic, sound, and light—during a shower to signal water usage. Haptic feedback emerged as the favorite, with users finding it the most effective and unobtrusive way to encourage water conservation.
design opportunities
1
We don’t always need high flow water
Many tasks can be accomplished with a gentler and more controlled water flow.
2
People lose track of time
Lack of awareness can lead to unintentionally prolonged showers, resulting in excessive water usage.
3
Getting people to care
Current solutions neglect to address the crucial aspect of raising awareness about water consumption, missing out on opportunities for behavior change.
developing the final design
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developing the final design *
feature 01:
dual flow shower
Ideation
The default setting would be the low-flow. It saves water without compromising the experience, and is needed for most of the shower.
User can switch to high-flow to perform specific tasks, such as rinsing shampoo, keeping the experience comfortable and easy.
Provide a subtle tactile reminder of time during the shower. Users can choose the pulse frequency that best suits their preferences and aligns with their desired showering habits.
feature 02:
haptic feedback
Visual representation of the shower time, providing a real-time indication of user’s progress, with customizable time goals. A white light moves around the light ring. If the user surpasses their goal time, the light will turn red.
