User research, literature study & contextual inquiries
When I joined TropoGo in 2020, we had limited information about our core user base—drone pilots. To shape our products and strategy, our primary objective was to gain a deeper understanding of the needs, goals, intentions, motivations, and pain points of our potential users.
Literature Study
Understanding the terminologies in domain, rules and regulations and scenario projections by consulting firms.
Contextual Enquiries
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Visited 2 Training Programs for Remote Pilot Training,
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1 drone operation survey site for claims analysis
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Interacted with multiple drone pilots and enterprises in Drone festival.
Outcome
Ecosystem players, relationships & potential business verticals
With the understanding from the initial research , we were able to map the key players, their relationships and potential business pockets for product offerings.
Archetype & Key Scenarios
Drone Pilots (Amateur, Hobbyists & Professionals)
Defining our key archetype shaped our product direction, business strategy, marketing approach, and brand communication tone.
Amateur drone pilots are newcomers to the industry with little to no experience and may or may not be licensed. Unlike hobbyists, they see drone flying as a potential professional career rather than a recreational activity.
Hobbyist drone pilots fly drones for personal enjoyment, such as taking scenic photos or exploring technology. Their activities are recreational and not focused on earning income or building a professional career.
Professional drone pilots are licensed individuals who use drones for commercial purposes, such as photography, videography, surveying, agriculture, inspections, or deliveries. They possess advanced skills and operate to meet professional and industry standards.
Key scenarios identified:
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Conducting drone flights/operations
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Get flying certifications
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Keeping up-to-date with official processes, regulations and industry trends
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Searching for jobs
How UX design of these scenarios unfolded is detailed in the next section.
Emergence of Key themes & challenges
Need of
Awareness
Need of
better tools for
Safer
Operations
Need of
Training
Need of
channels for
Career Growth
Defining overarching guiding principles
Build for Trust
Information First Design
Facilitate Discovery
Product Phasing Strategy
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