Procter & Gamble
Personal care is an essential component of our daily regimen; however, finding products that contribute to a sustainable and healthy lifestyle pose a challenge. Many consumers seek products that seamlessly integrate into our daily lives while enhancing convenience and efficacy.
Procter & Gamble partnered with our Northwestern Design team to address this challenge and expand their skin and personal care product line.
My primary role in this project was conducting design research throughout the design process, culminating in the development of a final design aimed at enhancing convenience and efficacy in individuals' personal care routines.
Please note that this project is subject to a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).
Understanding Our Consumers
Our team met with stakeholders where we conducted secondary research in order to understand the objectives within the targeted product space.
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We conducted in-depth in-home interviews utilizing visual diaries and collages to elicit consumer insights.​​
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I personally led 2 interviews and took notes in order to gain a nuanced understanding of consumers' perspectives on personal care.
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In-Home Interview Notes
Drawing upon synthesized exploratory research findings from interviews, we identified key themes, tensions, and insights, laying the groundwork for the development of targeted "How Might We" (HMW) statements.
Identifying Insights, Themes, and Tensions
Initial Journey Map
Initial (HMW) Statements
Through a synthesis of exploratory research, we initiated the ideation of solutions and designed product stimuli activities. This strategic approach aimed to deepen our understanding of the targeted consumers, encompassing their needs, pain points, and goals.
Wording Sorting Exercise
Ranking and Grouping Exercise
Wording Grouping Exercise
Presenting Our Research
Drawing from our insights and user-testing outcomes, we then refined our understanding of key themes, tensions, journey mapping, and How Might We (HMW) statements. We then crafted a presentation board incorporating analytical frameworks to visualize our findings, culminating in the finalization of our product requirements. This research was formally presented to our sponsors for thorough review and discussion.
Design Research Presentation Board
Following our presentation, we designed 7 prototypes, integrating our key design requirements and incorporating feedback gathered from our sponsor review. These prototypes underwent a process involving 3D modeling and printing. We then conducted prototype user-testing with 7 consumers which deepened our understanding and refined our ultimate product iteration. ​​
Prototype Brainstorming
Prototype Building
Prototype Testing
Finalizing Our Prototype
In the development of our final prototype design, we produced a 3D printed and rendered model. This prototype was showcased in our final presentation which detailed finalized research, product pitch video, and the findings that guided us to our final product and solution. We presented to stakeholders at the Procter & Gamble Headquarters in Cincinnati.
Introduction
User Persona
Journey Map
Design Requirements
Video Pitch
Final Product
User Persona
Journey Map
Design Requirements
Final Product
Reflection
This project served as a catalyst for my growth as a product designer and researcher, providing valuable experiences in consumer communication, innovative design, collaboration with stakeholders at P&G, and personal development within a dynamic team setting.
Takeaways and Learnings
When conducting research, prioritize the exploration of consumers' subtle habits and unconscious behaviors to unveil insightful findings. A comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of user behavior becomes a cornerstone in informed decision-making.
Before leaping into solutions, it is imperative to understand all facets surrounding the problem. Invest time in establishing a genuine connection with the issue, as this approach facilitates the delivery of authentic and impactful solutions tailored to the needs of the target audience.
Learn Consumers' Habits
Foster Collaboration
Know the Problem
Enhance your learning journey by fostering collaboration and participating in brainstorming sessions with team members. Dedicate specific moments for collective debriefing, thereby amplifying group synergy and fostering the exchange of valuable knowledge.