resteasy
Simplifying Eco-Friendly Funerals with Technology
Project Type: UX Design
My Role: Solo UX Researcher, Product Designer, Interaction Designer, Information Architect, and Strategist
Timeline: 90 Days
Tools: Figma, Miro, Google Docs
Introduction
As consumer values shift towards sustainability, the funeral industry must adapt. Resteasy is a mobile app that helps individuals and families plan eco-conscious funerals. This case study explores the development of Resteasy, from identifying a critical need to crafting a solution that addresses the challenges and embraces the opportunities of the modern funeral landscape.
Designer’s Role
As the solo designer of Resteasy, I identified and translated user needs into a functional and intuitive app. I conducted extensive research, user interviews, prototyping, and iterative testing to ensure the app effectively addresses the challenges of eco-friendly funeral planning.
Problem Space
Planning an environmentally friendly funeral can be difficult and emotional, especially when information about eco-friendly options is scattered and difficult to find.
Crafting a Solution
With a clear understanding of the problem space, I began brainstorming solutions to empower individuals and families seeking eco-friendly funerals. Resteasy is a user-friendly mobile app designed to empower individuals and families to plan eco-friendly funerals with ease and confidence. It addresses the challenges of the traditional funeral industry by offering a comprehensive and personalized approach to sustainable end-of-life arrangements.
How Might We?
provide accessible sources for eco-friendly funeral planning?
provide tools for user-controlled funeral arrangements?
make eco-friendly funeral options more affordable and accessible?
improve communication for effective funeral planning?
Design Process
The design process for Resteasy followed a well-defined structure, encompassing the following key phases:
Emphasize: This initial phase involved conducting extensive research to understand the needs, pain points, and expectations of users seeking eco-friendly funeral options.
Define: Based on the research findings, user needs were clearly defined and prioritized.
Ideate: Utilizing a creative and collaborative approach, various potential solutions were explored and evaluated.
Prototype: Based on the chosen solution, high-fidelity prototypes were developed, incorporating user feedback from previous phases.
Test: Iterative testing was conducted throughout the design process, ensuring the app was user-friendly and met the desired user needs.
Research
These statistics highlight a significant shift toward environmentally conscious funeral practices, driven by increased environmental awareness and a desire for more natural, cost-effective alternatives.
User Insights
Education: Users seek knowledge about sustainable death care practices to make informed decisions.
Personalization: Users desire pre-planning tools and control over their funeral arrangements.
Costs: Users consider affordability and seek transparent pricing for eco-friendly services.
Communication: Users value clear information, compassionate support, and efficient communication during the planning process.
Insights revealed users' needs for accessible resources, personalization, support, and education in eco-friendly funeral planning. Key aspects included open communication, personalized pre-planning tools, and emotional support.
Information Architecture
Early Ideations
Simplicity: Streamlined and intuitive interface to combat clutter
Customization: Tailored options for user preferences and workflows
Continuous Refinement: Updated designs based on user feedback for improved visuals, flow, and customization
Moodboard
Hi-Fi Wireframes
Reflections
Creating RestEasy was a journey that necessitated grappling with sensitive topics. It taught me the significance of empathetic design and conducting research in emotionally charged contexts. The process also highlighted the immense need for sustainable options within the funeral industry. Since this was my very first capstone project, next time I would document everything I am doing, and stay focused on the user needs.
Conclusion
RestEasy represents a pivotal step toward transforming funeral planning into a transparent, eco-conscious process. Through a meticulous design process focused on user needs and environmental welfare, RestEasy aspires to redefine the funeral industry's landscape, providing solace to grieving individuals while honoring our planet.
