Lessen Scheduling & Tasks
A native iOS experience that handles scheduling and surfaces tasks for Field Project Managers at Lessen.
In 2021 Lessen launched the Scheduling and Tasks experience, a native iOS application designed for the internal Field Project Management (FPM) team. The primary device for this app was the iPad Air, provided to each user. The main goal was to streamline scheduling and task management for FPMs, reducing project delays and improving overall efficiency. This was a four-week design effort.
1 Designer
5 Engineers
3 Product Managers
1 Content Strategist
My Role: Lead Product Designer
Before the development of the Scheduling and Tasks experience, FPMs managed their schedules through emails and text messages, leading to missed appointments, lack of supervisor insight into project progress and inefficiencies in managing multiple projects. This disorganization resulted in longer inspections, delayed projects and difficulty in setting performance goals.
We conducted remote interviews with FPMs to understand their scheduling challenges and needs. This research helped define the scope and requirements, focusing on creating a centralized location for FPMs to manage their schedules and tasks. Initially, we considered adding a notification feature but removed it due to time constraints and insufficient research.
I conducted competitive research and utilized feedback loops with engineering and product teams to iterate from wireframes to prototypes. Frequent design reviews with tribe members, the larger engineering and design teams, and executives ensured alignment. User testing validated the designs, and I provided clear documentation for development, pairing closely with engineers to address any design issues.
The Lessen team built a robust design system named Rivet. It was utilized, maintained and carefully contributed to over time.
Frequent meetings with engineering, including daily stand-ups, design reviews, sprint planning sessions, grooming and bug bashes ensured continuous alignment and clarity. I also paired closely with engineers throughout development phases to address any design issues that could arise.
The app aimed to provide a comprehensive and intuitive tool for FPMs to manage their tasks and schedules effectively. Key features included a centralized list of upcoming tasks sorted by date, the ability to filter and search tasks, view task locations on a map, receive notifications and project updates, and view daily metrics such as task goals and completions. The design strategy emphasized quick access to information, transparency in project status, and a detailed view of each task to ensure FPMs were well-prepared for their inspections.
Success was measured by user sentiment and performance metrics. FPMs reported more time spent on properties and a reduction in missed appointments and incorrect property visits. Post-launch improvements included a map feature for viewing property locations and daily metrics to incentivize performance, both based on user feedback and business goals. Feedback from FPMs was overwhelmingly positive. They appreciated the centralized scheduling and task management, which allowed them to focus more on property inspections and client interactions. Supervisors valued the increased transparency and efficiency.
Despite the tight timeline, the project was enjoyable and highlighted the importance of frequent stakeholder collaboration. Previous experience in managing expectations and strategizing with large groups of stakeholders was invaluable.