Copyright © 2024 Ahra Jo
Product Designer
Feb - May 2024
As part of my Master’s, I led Laundromate, a case study exploring how technology can enhance traditional laundry services. The project focused on integrating IoT for real-time scheduling, monitoring, and notifications to improve efficiency and user experience.
• Conducted research and user interviews as part of the design process.
• Based on user insights and needs, implemented real-time scheduling, monitoring, and notification features.
• Created detailed UX flow and high-fidelity UI for the app.
The Need for Smarter Laundromat Solutions
Most laundromats still operate with traditional systems, leading to inefficiencies and customer dissatisfaction. There is an increasing demand for modern, user-friendly solutions to enhance the laundry experience.
The lack a washer and dryer at home, leading people to rely on laundromat services.
Showing a clear preference for more flexible and tech-driven solutions that meet their needs for convenience.
Conducted User Research
Shadowing and Observation
Observed laundromat users to identify pain points like boredom, machine complexity, and unpredictable wait times.
Laundry Load Complexity
Utilize a range of machine sizes to accommodate different laundry needs
Unsecure Laundry
Often observed that laundry is left unattended after washing and drying.
Unpredictable waiting
Visitors wait on-site to use machines when it's busy, with no way to predict availability.
No More Coin Pay
Most users now use credit/debit cards, with app payments also available.
I often forget to pick up my laundry. Sometimes, I'd arrive to find my clothes taken out of the dryer and left on top of the machines. This has led to missing several items.
I appreciate the time flexibility the laundromat offers, but sometimes I’d like to see machine availability in advance.
During peak times, I used to visit multiple laundromats, often without any guarantee of finding an available machine. It was frustrating and time-consuming.
Primary Needs
Real-Time Availability and Scheduling
Users expect immediate information on machine availability to efficiently plan their laundry activities without unnecessary delays or visits.
Accessibility of Diverse Machine Options
Users require access to a range of washing and drying machines that can accommodate various types of laundry loads, from small to large bedding.
Secure Storage for Laundry
There is a significant concern among users regarding the security of their laundry, especially when left unattended in public spaces.
Seamless Payment Solutions
Users are moving away from traditional coin-operated machines and prefer more modern, cashless payment options.
Time-Crunched Professionals
Claire Kim
• Occupation: Marketing Analyst
• Location: Urban Area
• Living a studio without in-unit laundry
• Comfortable using apps for food delivery, and ride-hailing.
Goal
• Save time on laundry with a convenient, tech-enabled solution.
• Minimize hassle by using services that offer machine reservations, notifications, and contactless payments.
Needs
• Minimize time spent on chores, including laundry.
• Have clean clothes readily available for work.
• Seek reliable and affordable service.
Frustration
• Hates the time and hassle spent going to the laundromat.
• Finds waiting for laundry to be finished very unproductive.
• Gets frustrated when her laundry is left unsecured, leading to missing items.
• Doesn't like having to figure out coins and wants to get discounted.
A Streamline From Reservation To Pick-up
Check Availability
Check machine type and availability.
Reservation
Ability to reserve machines in advance.
Progress Tracking
Notifications when laundry is finished.
Laundry Locker
Store the laundry safely until pick-up.
Loyalty Reward
Loyalty program with discounts or rewards.
User Flow &
Wireframe
The user needs to quickly find a laundromat with available machines, compare capacity and wait times, and reserve a machine to avoid a wasted trip.
The user needs to connect their phone to the machine via RFID, receive reminders, and choose to pick up laundry immediately or have it stored in a locker.
The user needs to join the rewards program, track progress towards rewards, and apply them with a code at checkout.
Managing Laundry at Your Fingertips
Main Interaction and Interface
Flow 1 Check Availability & Reserve
Flow 2 Track Progress & Plan Pickup
Flow3 Earn Rewards with App-Based Punch Card
Style Guide
