Research

User interviews were conducted extensively across multiple categories of stakeholders. Around 30 people, on-site & off-site, were interviewed to understand their work areas and pain points. We figured out that there were so many overlapping roles for the stakeholders. Different builders manage these roles differently. Competitors offering such project management softwares were also analyzed. This was the most critical phase of this project.

Analyse

Based on the data gathered from research, we segmented construction projects into broad categories. This enabled creating user categories and journeys for each type - as an example, for a small-scale private project, a site engineer also undertakes the role of a conventional project manager.

We analyzed the pain points for every user category and figured out what features could be pain relievers. Thus a value proposition chart was created. We were able to clearly define the problems and how we plan to solve them.

Ideate

Due to considerable variations in workflows of different construction agencies, we decided to go for completely modular software architecture. The software admin could assign most features or widgets to multiple kinds of users. This idea enabled flexibility to incorporate any workflow that any construction agency would want. Feature listing workshops were focussed on various elements like communication methods, Gantt charts for timeline planning, shift scheduling, issue tracker, calendar, purchase order management, vendor list, design library, etc.

Conceptualize

The agenda was to create wireframes for users who are not tech-savvy. Every screen was made with big menus, big fonts, and easy navigation between tasks. Only the top tasks were shown upfront so that there’s no confusion anywhere. We also incorporated an intuitive auto-complete feature everywhere where any user would have to fill a daily task report. Progress bars were used at a lot of places to include Zeigarnik Effect - people remember uncompleted or interrupted tasks better than completed tasks. Detailed working prototypes of wireframes were then tested with a bunch of users for feedback and iteration.

Design

The feeling that we wanted users to have is that getting a construction project done is not as stressful as it seems to be. Through the design language of the app, we made sure to keep the look and feel fresh. At all times, owners & architects should feel they are updated. At the same time, project managers & site engineers should feel that everyone involved in the project is reachable. Users on the field have to use the app sometimes in sunlight also. We made sure the typography, color contrast, and iconography are made in such a way that it caters to all such needs. The use of good infographics for the reports dashboard also enhanced the ability to comprehend various stats and data points.