Leading a Data-Driven Redesign of WM’s Mobile App

Project Overview

In the summer of 2022, I led WM’s Product Design Summer Internship Program, where I trained, mentored, and guided two design interns. Our primary focus was redesigning WM’s mobile app to enhance the overall user experience and drive customer satisfaction. We synthesized existing research data to inform our design decisions and developed thoughtful, user-centered solutions to address key pain points. The project was recognized across the company for its strong, data-driven approach to design.

My Role

Internship Program Leader

Workshop Facilitation

Training & Mentorship

Client

Waste Management

Tools

UserTesting, Miro, Sketch, Invision, PowerPoint

App Reviews

Identifying User Frustrations

We analyzed over 100 app reviews to gain insights into user frustrations. Through this process, we identified and categorized the pain points into three key areas: billing, service, and technical issues. These insights informed our redesign strategy, with a primary focus on addressing concerns related to billing and service.

Services

Late Pickup

Extra Pickup

Pickup Schedule

Services

40%
Billing

Unclear Pricing

Autopay

Billing Error

Billing

30%
Technical

Accounts

Slow

Other

Technical

30%
User Interviews

Understanding Users’ Needs and Expectations

After analyzing 30 user interviews, we uncovered 3 key areas that had potential for improvement.

Easy & Proactive Communication
 Flexibility & Control
Reminders & Updates
User Persona

Residential Budget-conscious and Tech-savvy Customers

Expectations

Track and manage WM billing easily.

Ensure service is affordable and reliable.

Keep weekly trash pickup consistent.

Goals

Stay on top of the family budget.

Avoid billing issues or surprises.

Save time with AutoPay and digital tools.

Residential

 

Tech Savvy

 

Budget Sensitive

 

Journey Mapping

Understanding Users’ Pain Points

Based on the journey mapping and a deep understanding of user pain points, we identified key opportunities for improving the MyWM App experience:

  • Provide clear billing details for easier online verification.
  • Enable bulk payment to simplify account management.

  • Highlight AutoPay benefits by showcasing potential annual savings.

  • Show real-time service status and updates to increase transparency.

  • Add reminders for both payment and pickup days.

  • Offer a simple and intuitive way for users to report issues and contact support.

Hi-fi Wireframes

Designing Solutions to Address Key Pain Points

App reviews revealed that customers were primarily frustrated with service and billing issues. To address these pain points, we redesigned the app’s main pages with a focused effort on improving service and billing-related experiences, ultimately enhancing overall usability and satisfaction.

Login Flow

Log in easily with Face ID. While loading user data, an animated logo provides visual feedback and reinforces the brand.

Home

Access bills, payment details, and service updates directly from the home screen.

Services Flow

View service updates, access service details, and easily report issues or contact support, right from the app.

Billing Flow

Get a clear, transparent view of your detailed billing. Easily enroll in Autopay and paperless billing in bulk.

Profile

Manage alerts and account settings from the profile screen.

Prototyping

Crafting Residential Customers’ Experience

Next Steps

  • Conduct usability testing and iterate based on insights.
  • Update the app’s visual design to modernize the look and ensure alignment with WM branding.
  • Collaborate with the engineering team to implement the updates.