The Challenge

First-time users found the Philips HomeRun 7000 Aqua robot cleaner app confusing and frustrating. Based on prior user testing, four critical issues emerged: non-intuitive navigation requiring multiple steps for basic cleaning, unclear status indicators during operation, difficult customization options, and no error prevention across functions.

Design Goals

Create a robot cleaner application that is simple, intuitive, efficient, and flexible, offering a clear and straightforward user experience that empowers users to manage household cleaning tasks with confidence.

Approach

Our team conducted research and design across three phases: evaluated the existing app through heuristic analysis and usability research, explored four concept directions through brainstorming sessions, then tested and iterated toward a final design.

What I Did

• Conducted heuristic analysis of existing interface

• Participated in usability research and testing

• Explored four concept directions (Schiphol Airport, Food Delivery, Dating Apps, SenseSpace)

• Co-developed final prototype following Philips design guidelines

• Iterated designs based on user feedback

Key Design Solutions

The final design combined strengths from four concepts:

• Simple cleaning flow – Streamlined navigation reducing steps for basic use

• Clear status visibility – Prominent indicators eliminating need to check robot physically

• Intuitive customization – Easy-to-understand options with clear visual feedback

• 3D map interface – Upgraded from 2D for better spatial cognition

Outcomes

Usability testing showed the redesign successfully resolved the primary navigation and status visibility issues. Users quickly adapted to the new flow after initial setup.

Some refinements identified for future iterations include button label clarity, advanced customization options, and map interactions. Overall, the redesigned app achieved its goal of feeling easy, flexible, and reliable.

Client Response: Versuni (Philips) expressed satisfaction with the redesign direction.

Grade: 8.5/10