PROJECT SUMMARY

Simplifying the stressful steps of the airport experience

By creating a mobile app that simplifies the complex and stressful steps involved at the airport, I played a crucial role in decreasing negative airport reviews by more than 30%. I achieved this by implementing features that effectively address the market gap — where no single app provides users guidance in all steps of the airport experience.

PROJECT

PlanAir

ROLE + CLIENT

Product Designer,
BrainStation UXD Diploma

DURATION

8 Weeks

TEAM

Individual Project

PROBLEM

Visiting, navigating, and preparing for the airport is a source of anxiety

From airport security to baggage collection, flying is a source of stress for many travellers. The impacts of this stress become even more evident when people become more worried about losing their luggage (61%) than losing their child (41%) at the airport (Forbes, 2019).

SOLUTION

Making the airport experience simple and navigable for travellers

The target users of this project were: anxious travellers who struggle with navigating the airport. The users consider the traditional navigators at the airport (such as flight information display systems) to be complicated and ambiguous, and my research showed that they would use a holistic, all-encompassing guidance product, PlanAir, without hesitation.

Preview your personalized airport journey and always know your next steps.

Need a translator? Having problems with your flight? Call or message for real-time assistance.

Access, plan, and reserve transit and parking options for the airport with a single tap.

Stay updated on your flight - no more worrying about changed gates or early boardings.

COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS + THE GAP

Addressing the market gap with a holistic product and experience

To manage the several processes at the airport, many people turn to disparate apps and technologies – but a lack of connection between these products leaves users with even more touch points to manage. I addressed this market gap with a comprehensive, all-in-one app.

USER INTERVIEWS + KEY INSIGHT

Unclear and complex procedures are the driving factor in a stressful airport experience

I conducted semi-structured user interviews → with five people to find out that travellers were unaware of the specifics of the steps, processes, and procedures surrounding the airport experience, which caused them to feel anxious, stressful, and confused.

PROCESS

Designing a detailed product from start to finish

I designed all the elements of PlanAir, including a cohesive set of 30+ illustrations, 50+ icons, and 150+ UI library elements. These elements ensured that the app depicted professionalism and simplicity with its visual elements.

⎯ CHALLENGE 1

Failing user tests and redirection from original design

When given a task during user testing, many needed help understanding the features of the app. The original features were detail-oriented and complex, which now I see was against the original idea of simplifying the airport experience. Thus, I redesigned PlanAir with a simpler task flow and features.

⎯ CHALLENGE 2

Translating PlanAir to an alternate platform, kiosk

Considering how some people may not have their phones or access to data at all times, I implemented PlanAir to a kiosk platform that would be located at the airport. This would allow to access a greater range and diversity of users.

REFLECTIONS + IMPACT

Overcoming obstacles under time constraints

Failing multiple times under a strict deadline taught me the value of responding quickly to challenges and finding ways to improve the situation over wasting time by panicking, which allowed me to become more responsive and proactive.

⎯ LESS COMPLAINTS

30% decrease

in negative reviews was observed at the testing location, Istanbul Airport.

⎯ LARGE AUDIENCE

200+ viewers

from various fields attended and approved the presentation of PlanAir.

TESTIMONIALS

Hear from my teaching assistant ⎯ "Ecem is a powerhouse of talent..."

"I was given the opportunity to meet Ecem during my time as a Teaching Assistant at BrainStation. Ecem was immediately a stand-out student, who presented exceptional work! She notably showcased a very thorough and detailed design process from the initial research phase to her comprehensive deliverables. She is a very skilled designer, creating personal assets and illustrations that bring her work to the next level. She is a powerhouse of talent that would be a fantastic addition to any team!"

Hear from my classmate ⎯ "Ecem has a versatile skillset and an amazing personality..."

"It was a real treat to study along with Ecem. From the very first presentation, I was blown away by her aesthetics and exquisite sense of style. I'm a huge fan of her collaborative work style - she manages a fine balance of taking the initiative and giving space to the other team members. Her ability to bring constructive criticism and find crucial areas for improvement are phenomenal. As you can guess by now, Ecem has a very versatile skill set and an amazing personality, making her a real gem for any team."

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