My Capstone Project for my Masters Degree consisted of a overhaul for the experience of visiting a State Park in Michigan from finding your ideal park on their website to on the trail wayfinding, navigation, and safety. The entire scope of the project included:
My two teammates focused on redesigning the DNR website while I was tasked primarily with developing the physical designs including the Digital Message Board, Button of Safety, and the Digital Trail markers
Project Background and Objective
In July 2020, the Center for Disease Control recommended that people have access to parks and recreational spaces and that engaging in physical activity is beneficial for both physical and mental health.
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the influx of Michiganders looking to get outdoors, it became increasingly clear that Michigan state parks would benefit from the development of an universal experience for all.
Our team's objective was to examine outdoor recreational activities and
services to help people understand which outdoor spaces are best for them and learn how to remove barriers around accessing outdoor recreational spaces.
services to help people understand which outdoor spaces are best for them and learn how to remove barriers around accessing outdoor recreational spaces.
User Feedback
User Requirements
Discoverability
Access to accurate real time information
Information on accessibility for multiple levels of ability
Off-grid Navigation
Solo safety
Researchability for secondary users
Key Insights
Lack of information deters some users from trails and parks
Primary users are often researching for secondary users
Users primarily utilize their smartphones for research and trail information
Users are interested in learning more about outdoor activities
Story Boarding
Ideation and Prototyping
Final Designs
Digital Message Board
The Digital Message Board consists of, a large LED screen displaying the park map, weather, park events, announcements, and real-time updates on current trail conditions. The Digital Message Board can also be equipped with auditory components for the visually impaired.
Safety Button
The safety button is able to be reserved on the recreation search website and allows our solo hikers to feel more comfortable during their adventures. The safety button is equipped with a snap-on clip, auditory and visual feedback, and GPS tracking.
Digital Trail Markers
The digital trail markers consist of a analog sign displaying semi-permanent trail information, and below LED screens display real-time updates and information. The markers are physically and digitally modular, allowing customization of physical components and can also be equipped with auditory components for the visually impaired.
Updated Storyboards
For those interested, you can view the project and design process in full below:
