http://www.bloggerclick.com/2011/11/funny-cell-phone-status-updates.html
Credit
The Design Thinking Bootcamp classes were a great way to give us a quick, hands on and interactive experience of the creative design process. When we were first asked to redesign a phone, I basically remade the typical IPhone. I had no direction or thought in how I could possibly redesign a phone or make it better. The only idea I came up with in the short time given was to enhance the camera zoom, quality and features. It was interesting to see that most of the class had basically “reinvented” the iPhone as well.
The interviewing phase enlightened and surprised me in the fact that I could come up with so many ideas to improve a phone when listening to my partner, Lauren, describe her daily activities and usage with her device. Asking her to describe a story when her phone either saved the day or failed focused my thinking and allowed me to create a software feature that would help her phone retain battery strength while reminding her to charge it.
Being able to communicate with our partner and get feedback was vital for my design and process. I initially started with an app used to track phones, but upon the second interview I realized I needed to shift my idea and try to address a more frequent problem that she faces (I think we all do).
Prototyping my idea allowed me to “see” what it would look like to the user and it felt very real. I could see myself and others using the updated low battery features. Under Low Battery in Settings I added the ability to pick an adjusted time to turn Low a Battery Mode on instead of the mandated 20%. I also added the ability to pick four custom to get a low battery notification instead of just at 20%. Having the last interview with my partner raised valid question for me to consider. Would having the low battery mode on more frequently slow the phone down? Would I be able to get the major cell phone companies to implement my idea?
It was really satisfying to see where we started as a class with “Iphone look a likes” to presenting very unique and individual enhancements, technology and apps all designed to increase the wellbeing of society. With the support of the readings, I feel I have Better understanding and respect for the importance of Design Thinking. I loved this activity!