QUOTE MASTER
An internal mobile platform for the Build Junction to serve their prime customers.
Domain
Enterprise System ā Home Improvement
TEAM
1 Product Designer (Me) + 1 Product Designer + 1 Design Lead
Timeline
5 months (Octā21 - Febā22)
STATUS
Proof of Concept (POC) ā Paused
UNDERTAKEN AT
Mindstix Software Labs
Overview
The Build Junction is a retail company with expertise in home improvement products. They host a particular group of buyers that serve contractors (aka prime customers) that deliver to an end customer for whom purchasing in bulk is a need.
The Quote Master helps employees be more efficient and have inter-departmental knowledge to serve their prime customerās. But now, there was a need for mobile application.
CONTEXT
Why a mobile application?
For Build Junction, the goal was to optimize the mobility of executives. This optimization would enable them to better serve the needs of prime customers by improving the in-store experience and creating opportunities for out-of-store quoting options.
Research
Discovering the need for mobile access.
As a two-person team, we thoroughly examined all available resources to deepen our understanding of the Quote Master web application. Our methodical approach involved a detailed walkthrough of the current system, enhanced by gathering key insights from stakeholders.
Applying a systems thinking perspective allowed us to visualize the seamless synchronization between the web and mobile apps. This iterative exploration established a strong foundation for crafting the initial user flow, aimed at delivering a cohesive and intuitive experience for Quote Master users.
How is the system working currently?
Prime customers sign up for the membership through the the Build Junction portal.
Customers include remodelers, renovators, electricians, plumbers, contractors etc. who purchase materials in bulk and in a planned manner.
Help customers in planning and ideation. Quotes are emailed or printed for the customers.
Discounted prices for high volumes.
Able to browse out-of-stock product catalogue.
The system only can be accessed through designated desktops in the warehouse.
What couldāve been better?
Follow-up with customers to convert quotations to purchases.
No mobility for store associates as they need stay stuck to the desktop for any information.
The Quote Master
eco-system is disconnected from the core Build Junction. Hurdles in integrating and aligning with the business requirements.
Out of all the quotations created, 75% donāt convert.
No way for customers to track their order. They have to always contact the store to get an update.
Requests from customers are hard to manage. Challenging for both parties, as the associates need to spend undivided time to create quotes.
What are the opportunities?
A touchpoint with customers which lets them browse remotely through non-stock catalogue without having to contact any associate.
Ability for associates and customers to track packages.
Improving the cumbersome and unintuitive process to find products.
Live chat/chat bot options for tracking of packages.
Able to browse out-of-stock product catalogue.
Information regarding order status, resolved issues, communication chain and updates.
What are some features good to have?
Scan feature which lets associates to scan and view all product information.
A strong zero-state experience.
The Quote Master
Ability to see inventory from other store/warehouses for associates to recommend customers upon stock in-availability.
Track product location inside the warehouse using Aisle and Bay information.
Associates should be able to communicate and share information with each other.
Mobile and desktop devices should have seamless flow information as needed.
KEY DESIGN FEATURES
Reimagining user experience to critical information
The goal was to create a workspace where knowledge flows effortlessly and every decision is informed in real time. When information travels at the speed of need, it allows the floor associates to anticipate, adapt, and elevate the way they serve.
Scan & Sync Across Devices
Empowering users with cross-device continuity, the 'Scan and Transfer' feature allows for barcode scanning on the mobile app, seamlessly transferring data to the desktop.
This ensures a fluid user experience, eliminating disruptions and providing a cohesive workflow, optimizing efficiency and convenience in managing information across different platforms. This helped the employees move around the warehouse with ease, but have access to larger screens towards the end of their session with customers to finalize and create quotes.
Supplier Information in
Product Details Page (PDP)
This was built to equip the floor associates with instant access to supplier information like unit pricing, minimum order requirements, real-time availability, and delivery timelines allowing them give estimates to customers.
This solution enables warehouse employees to make informed decisions on the spot, optimize workflows, and uphold seamless supply chain operations. Ultimately cultivating a more knowledgeable user experience.
Smart Filtering to Find Products
This feature enriches the user experience by simplifying the process of applying multiple complex filters.
An intuitive interface and streamlined interactions help users to effortlessly navigate intricate filter options, ensuring precision and efficiency in their searches. This enhancement promotes a more user-friendly and efficient platform, empowering users to find exactly what they need with ease.
End to end communication to offer speedy and competitive pricing.
Learnings
Key takeaways.
One of the most exciting things about building a new product is being able to experiment and take risks without too much to lose. This project started as a mobile resource for the on-ground staff.
Through ideation and proposing future states, the final product included various functionalities, which the associates can leverage. We welcomed feedback at regular intervals that helped us remain aligned at all times.