Dogs are a man's best friend.
In urban and suburban areas, pet owners face the challenge of ensuring their pets' safety while providing them with the freedom to explore. The need for an effective pet tracking solution is important, as it addresses the common issues of pets getting lost or wandering into unsafe areas. By leveraging advanced technology and user-friendly design, this project seeks to enhance pet safety and simplify pet care.
Context
Class - Unfolding Nature and Form
September - December 2023
7 Weeks
.png)
Skills
Prototyping, Wireframing, UX Research, User Testing, Product Design
Skills
.png)
.jpg)
Apple
Whistle
Fi
Garmin
Strengths:
- Relatively low cost compared to pet trackers
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy integration
Strengths:
- Comprehensive Health Tracking
- Durable design
- Live tracking with precise location data
Strengths:
- Long Battery Life (up to several months)
- Precise location tracking with a high accuracy rate
Strengths:
- Precise tracking and ideal for tracking multiple pets
- Includes training tools and tracking options
- Durable
Weaknesses:
- Relies on nearby Apple devices to update location
- Not optimized for pets
Weaknesses:
- Requires a subscription for full features
- Bulky for small pets
Weaknesses:
- Higher initial cost and subscription fees
- - Bulky for small pets
Weaknesses:
- EXPENSIVE
- Complex Interface
- Design is large and bulky
.png)
.png)
Noticing design flaws in tracking devices, this balances durability, ergonomics, compactness, lightweight, and security.
.png)
While many devices are specialized, this design prioritizes broad functionality to serve a wide audience.
The design emphasizes simplicity, ensuring essential features are intuitive and functional.
10 pet owners from various regions and age groups were interviewed to understand their pets' safety habits and concerns.
Most pet owners stated that they don't have concrete ways of finding their pets if they get lost. Across the board they stated that they would be distraught, and sad should they lose their pets.
.png)
.png)
.png)
I sent out surveys and 28 pet owners responded back with their own personal experiences with their pets.
Do you think of your pets as family?
Do you use any method to track your pets?
Despite most interviewees thinking of their pets as family, it was interesting to see that most people have not considered using a trackable device.
Do you often worry about your pet’s health?
Are you open to using smart devices on your pet for tracking?
Do you, or have you ever tracked your pet’s health and activity levels?
How important is it for you to be able to track your pet's location in real-time?
To better understand my target audience and identify common pain points, I developed two unique personas to delve into their varied user experiences.
The Urban Pet Parent
About:
- Kacey is a busy marketing manager living in a busy city. She loves Jojo, her 3 year old pet chihuahua.
Motivations:
- Ensure Jojo's safety and well-being in a busy urban environment.
- Easily locate Jojo if he gets lost in the city.
Challenges:
- Concerns about Jojo safety in crowded and high-traffic areas.
- Managing Max's anxiety with the constant noise and activity in the city.
Traveling Pet Lover
About:
- Mark is an adventurous photographer who loves to travel with his dog, Buddy, a 7-year-old Border Collie.
Motivations:
- Ensure Buddy’s safety and health during their travels.
- Easily locate Buddy if he wanders off during outdoor activities.
- Monitor Luna’s activity levels to ensure she gets enough exercise.
Challenges:
- Managing Luna’s safety in unfamiliar and potentially hazardous environments.
- Keeping track of Luna during off-leash activities in vast outdoor spaces.
.png)
.gif)
.png)
With comfort in mind, I designed the Guardian to be simple and lightweight, ensuring it doesn’t burden your pet during their daily activities. The sleek, ergonomic design clips seamlessly with any collar.
Its user-friendly interface of the app ensures ease of use for pet owners, making it an indispensable tool for keeping pets safe and healthy,
.png)
The onboarding process welcomes users and are guided through step-by-step to set up their Bluetooth Guardian Tracking Device. The app automatically searches for tracking devices and once detected, users confirm the connection.
A quick calibration ensures accurate tracking, completing the sync process seamlessly.
.png)
The activity and health tracking functions monitor your pet's daily movements and overall well-being. This feature helps pet owners ensure their pets are active and healthy by providing valuable insights into their daily routines and health status.
.png)
The location tracking and geofencing features offer real-time monitoring of your pet's whereabouts and create virtual boundaries to keep them safe. Receive instant alerts if your pet leaves the designated safe zone, ensuring peace of mind and quick action if they wander off.
.jpg)
Lost Pet Mode activates urgent tracking, boosts GPS for accurate updates, and sends alerts to contacts and nearby app users. It also connects with shelters and clinics for community support in locating your pet.
Community Integration is Important
Leveraging community support, features connect with shelters and clinics to improve pet recovery.
Environmental Considerations
Considering diverse environments, community features and geofencing account for environmental factors.
Use of Notifications
A priority-based notification system keeps pet owners informed for quick action.
