Test, fail, fix puts UX principles into action, it involves the full process of designing, conducting, and analyzing a user test. Many automated systems rely on users to scan and log physical objects, documents, or data. These interactions involve a human–machine process that must be smooth and self-explanatory. The goal was to design an interface for a scanning machine intended for public spaces, where users place a physical object in a designated area to be scanned.
Lost & Found is a speculative tangible-digital system designed to help ECAL students reconnect with lost belongings through object scanning, object recognition, and connected locker storage, giving lost items a better chance of finding their way back home.
I partnered with my classmate Cindy on this project. We worked side by side on most decisions, but because of tight deadlines, we split ownership based on our strengths: I led user research, turning insights into direction for the design, while Cindy shaped the visual identity and brought the interface to life.
This project proposes a scanning system for ECAL students that enables the registration, storage, and retrieval of lost objects through a guided, low-friction interface.
When an item is found, users scan it, respond to a set of structured prompts, and generate a unique tag. The system then assigns a locker based on the object’s characteristics and sensitivity, where the item is securely stored.
Students who have lost an item can interact with the system through guided matching questions to help identify and claim their belongings without relying on open text input or manual searching.
To support sustainability and reduce long-term accumulation, unclaimed items are redirected to recycling or donation after six months. Users may also optionally provide contact information to enable direct acknowledgment between finder and owner.
Everyone liked and trusted the concept, but suggested some minor but significant improvements to make it even better.
Reducing unnecessary information on some screens while providing clearer guidance on other. Additionally, increasing button sizes and improving their visual prominence to make them more recognizable
The vertical text on the interface requires a more refined design solution. Additionally, conducting accessibility evaluations on color contrast and typography would further improve the overall usability and readability of the interface.
It is worth noting that three participants reported a moderate level of cognitive load. Only one participant gave a highly positive rating, while the remaining participants expressed satisfaction with the system’s affordances.
Many participants struggled to understand the concept of tapping the student card, as the purpose and required steps were not immediately clear. Providing clearer instructions and stronger visual cues would help.
