stadtwerke heidelberg

PROTOTYPING DIGITAL ASSISTANT FOR CHANGE MANAGEMENT

My Role

UI ARCHITECT
Prototyping

Summary

Based on guided interviews with Stadtwerke Heidelberg, I contributed to the concept and prototype of a digital assistant designed to support all stakeholders throughout a company’s change process, offering assistance along the way.

problem statement

Stadtwerke Heidelberg was undergoing a restructuring, which can create uncertainty and anxiety among employees. To provide clarity and reassurance during this period, a dedicated employee application was developed. The app aimed to inform staff about upcoming changes, timelines, and their current position in the restructuring process. It also allowed for collecting employee feedback and gauging overall sentiment.

APPROACH

Since we were a large team, we first had to identify our strengths and motivations to organize ourselves into appropriate sub-teams. In collaboration with Stadtwerke Heidelberg and our professors, we outlined the next steps, timeline, and key project outcomes. We first needed detailed information from Stadtwerke about the company and the planned restructuring process. From there, we defined our methods—expert interviews, personas, and usability testing—and developed a comprehensive project plan.

Design Process

Together, we conducted desktop research, which served as the foundation for creating an interview guide. The interview team then visited Stadtwerke for on-site interviews with employees. The results were discussed and analyzed with the larger group, and initial ideas were brainstormed.

In the concept team, we developed the first information architecture and wireframes for the structure. Based on this, the design team proposed and implemented design solutions. In the prototyping team, these designs were linked together into a click prototype. Finally, the interview team conducted usability tests with employees to gather feedback.

QUOTES

[I would like to have] Possible contact persons, if help with the restructuring is neeeded

Participant 4

Actually we knew everything. We just did not have access to it.

Participant 1

Learnings

the importance of soft skills!

To work effectively on a project with so many people, clear communication, mutual understanding, and a willingness to support one another are essential.