This project focused on redesigning elements of the BMW iDrive system to improve the user experience. User research revealed several pain points, the cluster interface was perceived as visually cluttered, causing driver distraction; the climate control menu's complexity hindered ease of use; and customization options did not adequately cater to individual user preferences.
In response to these challenges, we developed a proof of concept that simplified menus and integrated smart features, aiming to make the system more intuitive, less distracting, and ultimately safer for drivers.
"BMW iDrive Infotainment system users have noted that the cluster interface may appear visually cluttered, which contributes to distractions during driving."
"BMW iDrive Infotainment system users report that navigating the climate control menu can be challenging due to its complexity, affecting ease of use."
"BMW iDrive Infotainment system users have mentioned that the available customization features might not fully meet their preferences, which impact overall interaction with the system."
Our goal was to identify opportunities to improve BMW’s infotainment system and then design a proof of concept that is easier to interact with while staying true to BMW’s safety standards.
Contextual Inquiry
User Interviews
Recruited 14 BMW owners (via forums + snowball sampling) to discuss moments of mental overload, near-misses, and "stress triggers" during daily drives.
Key Insights
Ideation
Our objective was to transform our interview & contextual notes into actionable strategies for minimizing driver distraction.
We used the method of affinity mapping, and grouped 150+ qualitative datapoints (quotes, behaviors) into themes like "Ease of access" and "Easy Navigation".
Concept Sketching
We began by sketching wireframes on both paper and digitally to quickly validate our ideas. We then tested the paper prototypes to ensure our concepts were genuinely beneficial.
This step was crucial before we developed and tested digital prototypes.
Having NO access to the BMW Design system. We designed a design system based of the BMW Brand Identity. It was our practice to make sure we can build a design system that would help us build better UI for the system.
Pain Points
Users found sliders difficult to use while driving, making adjustments challenging.
Temperature controls lacked clear color differentiation, as both hot and cold settings used similar shades.
Positive Feedback
Users liked how the UI dimmed at higher speeds, reducing distractions.
Users appreciated the climate controls with larger buttons, which made the interaction easier.
Many users wished focus mode was already implemented, as it helps reduce cognitive load.
Users valued the ability to customize widgets for a more personalized experience.
When your BMW exceeds 50 km/h, the infotainment system and speedometer dims to a red hue. This change reduces unnecessary visuals and graphics, which helps to lower distractions and enhance focus at higher speeds. The red tint was chosen (after usability testing) for its effectiveness in reducing visual clutter, and you can easily customize this feature in the settings to suit your preferences.
This is our take on redesigning the climate control. In the original design, multiple submenus led to a high task failure rate while driving. We simplified the layout so that key controls are prominent and easily accessible on the main screen.
By using interaction function priority analysis, we strategically placed each button for intuitive use, helping drivers remember and navigate the system with ease.
We've made your BMW iDrive more personal with our new widget resizing feature. Now you can enlarge the widgets you use most and shrink the ones you rarely need, ensuring the key information stands out.
Additionally, you can save your custom layouts as presets, making it easy to switch between different configurations based on your driving situation or personal use case.
Impact
Improvisation Matters: We realized we could gather valuable insights even with limited resources. By being creative and flexible, we managed to test our ideas without relying on expensive tools or setups.
Testing Early and Often: Frequent testing helped us identify issues before they became bigger problems. It also allowed us to refine our ideas step by step.
Reduce Cognitive Load: Simplifying the design and minimizing distractions made the product more intuitive. This helped users focus on the core tasks without feeling overwhelmed.