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Brainstorming
We knew we wanted to help protect people from COVID-19, but we debated which product from a variety of original ideas would be most helpful. We decided that a face mask detector had the potential to keep thousands of people safe and we immediately began developing The Safety Scanner.
Market Research
Before developing our project further, we conducted extensive research in an effort to optimize the helpfulness of the product. We consulted with many high-level tech executives to gain a better idea of the development process of tech tools. We began with Prama Bhatt, Chief Digital Officer of ULTA BEAUTY. Recently, Ulta developed an app that utilized facial recognition software and we were eager to learn more. We learned so much about creating digital devices and the importance of market research. We also searched for similar projects and concluded that they exist, but they are expensive and are not easily accessible. Our product serves as a cost-effective alternative, specifically kid-friendly.
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User Research
We sent out a survey to students, administrators of public places, small business owners, and tech executives. We learned from tens of potential users that the scan must be efficient and would optimally be placed at the entrance to a large space. We also heard opinions that asserted that a product might not be so necessary, so we altered our product to target people who truly may not know that their mask is not being worn correctly, such as children. Also, we believe that the product has a policy benefit as well as a health benefit. In response to concerns about the effectiveness of the product, we decided to offer a buzzer extension to the LED display. We concluded that many people believed the product would be highly useful in a variety of settings.