Role: Digital Designer
Project Duration
12 Months
Overview
The inception of Professor Paws stemmed from my quest to enhance pet owners’ awareness of their animals’ well-being. My thesis revolves around exploring alternative, secure avenues for pet owners to access information about their pets’ requirements. Professor Paws primary goal is to demystify complex medical diagnoses and pet medications, eliminating the need for pet owners to navigate an endless maze of Google searches. This initiative was born out of my personal experience as a pet owner and my five-year tenure at an animal hospital. Despite my accumulated knowledge working alongside veterinarians, I often found myself conducting extensive research to gain a comprehensive understanding of my pet’s health condition. My thesis serves as a driving force for me to develop practical solutions that empower pet owners to become more informed about their pets’ needs, minus the overwhelming research efforts.
Process
Prior to embarking on this project, I recognized the necessity of conducting thorough research regarding my endeavor to develop an app aimed at assisting pet owners in comprehending intricate medical subjects. It was imperative to narrow down my target audience and engage in interviews with medical professionals to ensure that I had a clear focus on crafting a valuable platform for all pet owners. This preliminary groundwork was essential in laying the foundation for a successful and effective solution.
What is the problem
The relationship between pet owner and veterinarian is crucial for animals well-being and at the core of this relationship is proper communication. clients rely on professional medical care from their primary pet doctor. When there is a problem with communication this adds stress for the pet and their owner. Stress and mistrust can cause the pet owner to start questioning their veterinarian’s diagnosis and jeopardizing the wellbeing of their pet.
Who this problem affects
The elevated stress levels and miscommunication impact both pet owners and veterinarians. Pet owners desire the best for their pets but may lack the scientific knowledge to make informed decisions. Veterinarians possess this expertise but may find it challenging to effectively communicate recommendations and ensure client comprehension, especially when the pet owner is emotionally distressed. Identifying strategies to enhance understanding and provide clear instructions can significantly improve the situation for all parties involved.
Why is this a problem
The breakdown in communication and resulting stress is not only detrimental to the pet owner but also poses a significant risk to the pet’s well-being. When owners misconstrue the diagnosis or their responsibilities in caring for their pet at home, such as medication administration or wound care, it can potentially harm the pet rather than help. This misunderstanding may erode trust in the healthcare provider, leading to a lack of seeking necessary care and a reliance on online sources for medical guidance. Relying on the internet or social media platforms for diagnosis can be unreliable and even hazardous.
This can prompt owners to experiment with unproven remedies, over-the-counter medications, or completely misdiagnose the issue. Improving communication is crucial not only to alleviate stress for the client but also to ensure that the pet receives proper care both at home and in a clinical setting, ultimately safeguarding the pet’s well-being.
The App
After conducting user testing and developing numerous mockups, I have begun to shape the final design of my user-friendly app. The primary objective of this app is to provide valuable information without overwhelming users with a complex interface. The aim is to ensure that the app is informative and straightforward, avoiding confusion and deterring users with an overly complicated design.
Information Book
Kayleen Lawson 