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Design Bried
Challenges
Company
Timeline
Role
Deep sym
Aug 2022 - Jun 2023
Product Designer
Responsible for research, Conceptualisation, design, user testing and delivery of key modules and features areas.
Deep Sym is a UK-based startup that has developed a smart breathing device with sensors to help people practice deep breathing exercises. They need a simple and user-friendly app to support the device, track breathing patterns, and improve the overall experience.
What was the Problem?
What was the Problem?
Many anxiety apps lack real-time support, personalization, comprehensive resources, and advanced tracking. Immediate assistance through on-demand exercises, grounding techniques, or professional access can enhance effectiveness. Since anxiety varies, apps should offer tailored solutions to meet individual needs. Effective management also requires diverse tools like mindfulness, CBT, and journaling, supported by research-backed resources.
Additionally, advanced tracking is essential for understanding triggers and progress, yet many apps fall short, making it harder for users to manage their anxiety effectively.
We designed a seamless onboarding process that personalizes guided breathing exercises based on user preferences and personality, enhancing effectiveness. Users can adjust their preferences anytime. Motivation is driven by extrinsic and intrinsic rewards, personal goal-setting, feedback, and improvement suggestions.
Social comparison further encourages engagement, as competition helps users stay motivated to achieve their goals.
Desk & User research
Respiratory health findings
According to studies, 74% of people in the UK experienced feelings of overwhelm or anxiety at some point in the previous year.
In England, emergency hospital admissions for respiratory diseases dropped from 1,592 per 100,000 in 2020 to 711 per 100,000 in 2021. The INHALE Profile provides updated data on hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses like COPD, pneumonia, adult-onset asthma, and pediatric bronchiolitis, focusing on cases where COVID-19 was the primary diagnosis. The North and Midlands saw higher emergency COPD admissions than the South.
Emergency pneumonia admissions rose from 2013-14 to 2016-17 before declining in 2017-18. The INHALE profile helps health boards assess and address local respiratory disease trends.
Deep breathing calms the nervous system, lower heart rate, and promotes relaxation for mental clarity and peace.
Survey data from various age groups reveal that while half have heard of breath-focused practices, they lack familiarity; the rest have some knowledge. Additionally, 40% experience breathing difficulties occasionally (2-3 times a month) or frequently (1-2 times a week).
Using an app to monitor breathing patterns sounds helpful for tracking health, and open to trying new health monitoring technology.
Integrate real-time visual breathing patterns, guided tutorials, and goal-based challenges for a more interactive experience.
Prefer guided breathing exercises with valuable content, personalized recommendations, rewards, and a user-friendly interface for motivation.
Key Takeaways | Insights
Technological Innovations Enhance Self-Care and Patient Empowerment in Healthcare Management
