A browser extension provides a holistic and personalized itinerary planning service for young adults, utilizing AI to create optimal travel routes based on user-inputted destinations and preferences. (15 mins read)
We obtained data from conducting user research with real end users. Since the product hasn't been launched, we are using the HEART method from Google to measure success throughout the design process.
Like my personal experience, many of my friends invest a significant amount of time and effort in researching travel activities that suit their preferences during their pre-trip preparations.
We outlined three concepts and combined two of them, activity scheduling and a travel safety monitor, to create a comprehensive travel planning tool that produces a personalized itinerary based on users' preferences.
We analyzed four competing products that would inform our research process and key functionalities to distinguish aTrip within this space. These competitors existed in the areas of travel planning and itinerary generation, which align with our product goals.
The target users for our product are young adults aged 20 to 35, with a primary motivation to enhance their overall travel experience (Source: Expedia).
Through brainstorming with As-is and To-be methods in the team, we figured out the possible frustrations before, during, and after trips.
The amount of responses collected from the survey distributed to the UMich community.
The percentage of participants expressed complaints about time-consuming research, which validates the pain point.
The key factors considered when planning a trip included cost, safety, and activities.
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"I have a bucket list of places I’ve always wanted to travel at the ready but I just keep waiting for the right person to go with me. Last year, I decided to schedule a plan for a Chicago trip for myself. It’s a big headache to collecting tons of associate information and seeking advice from other travelers to be well prepared.”
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"I cherish my time to explore and do what I want on my timetable. I like to walk, hike, etc. He [my spouse] doesn’t share my passion for nature, culture, and history. It would be an atrocity not to travel just because my spouse doesn’t like it. This is my passion, and he is supportive as I support his golfing.”
We translated the sketches into a comprehensive user flow and tried to close the user transition loop that could form the structure and flow of the application.
A design guideline incorporates color palettes, typography, and component library to ensure design consistency of all user interfaces and also make sure that all team members are on the same page.
At the beginning of the tour guide, users are asked to input basic information, including travel dates, budgets, and numbers of friends to travel with.
In order to enable collaboration, there is an icon dedicated to inviting others to participate in the planning process.
In addition, the collaboration is highlighted by showing the real-time positions of collaborators.
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The homepage also contains suggestions for things to do, where to go, and how to get around destinations, as well as travel tips to help users be responsible visitors through respect for local culture and custom.
Besides, using the concise and informative “Responsible Travel Tips” section could better prepare in advance for all things unpredictable.
It allows users to set filters based on their preferences to generate a personalized plan and modify each spot in the route.
We gathered elements that users care about the most when planning a trip to the list of preferences, such as eco-friendly, public transportation, pet-friendly, etc.
Also, people are able to modify each auto-generated spot and add any place as the start or end point to produce a complete route.
A dedicated button on the main page allows users to export plans to their local calendars as events, at the same time sync with mobile Google Maps, or send to mobile phones as PDFs through pop-up notifications.
