Projects / VapeGuard

VapeGuard

An innovative solution to help young adults break their vaping addiction

Role UX Designer, Researcher
Timeline 4 months
Tools Figma, Adobe XD, Canva, Miro
Team Alysha Olegario, Ben Holman, Blair Lee, Ethan Young
VapeGuard App and Device

Project Overview

VapeGuard is an innovative nicotine cessation system designed to empower young adults aged 18-24 to reduce and ultimately break their vaping addiction through personalized guidance, support, and accountability.

The system combines a mobile app with a physical dummy vape device that provides a sensory substitute without harmful chemicals, helping users overcome both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

The Challenge

Create a comprehensive solution to address the rapidly rising vaping rates among young adults in Australia, which increased from 5.3% in 2019 to 21% in 2022-2023.

The Solution

A dual-component system featuring a tracking app and a smart dummy vape device that helps users manage cravings and gradually reduce dependency.

Research & Discovery

User Interviews & Surveys

We conducted extensive background research through online discussions, surveys, and interviews with current and former vapers to understand their challenges and motivation.

Key findings included:

  • Social pressures and environments heavily influence vaping behavior
  • Many users want to quit but struggle with the addictive nature of vaping
  • Existing cessation apps are perceived as boring and ineffective
  • Users often lack control during cravings and need immediate support
User Research Process

Market Analysis

Existing cessation solutions were analysed to identify opportunities and gaps in the market.

The analysis revealed several key insights:

  • Most cessation apps focus only on tracking and lack behavioral substitution
  • Few solutions address the physical hand-to-mouth habit of vaping
  • Young adults need solutions that integrate with their digital lifestyle
  • Accountability and community support are crucial for successful cessation
Market Analysis

Problem Definition

Based on the research, the following key problems were identified:

  • Existing cessation methods fail to address both the nicotine addiction and the physical habit
  • Young adults need instant support during moments of craving
  • Lack of personalized approaches that adapt to individual vaping patterns
  • Difficulty in tracking progress and maintaining motivation

Solution Approach

VapeGuard addresses these problems through:

  • A dual-component system (app + dummy vape) that tackles both chemical dependency and habitual behavior
  • Emergency button and support network features for immediate assistance during cravings
  • Personalized tracking and data visualization to maintain motivation
  • Coffee-infused dummy vape that provides sensory satisfaction without harmful chemicals

Design Process

Feature Ideation & Decision Matrix

We began by brainstorming over 30 potential features to address user needs and then used a decision matrix to evaluate and prioritize them based on impact, feasibility, and alignment with user goals.

Feature Ideation Process

Wireframing & Information Architecture

Detailed wireframes were designed for both the app and the physical device interface, ensuring a seamless connection between the two components and an intuitive user flow.

Wireframes

User Testing & Iteration

We conducted multiple rounds of user testing, starting with mid-fidelity prototypes and iterating based on feedback. Testing included both the digital app interface and physical dummy vape prototype.

User Testing

Final Design

Digital Application

The VapeGuard app provides comprehensive tracking, support, and motivation features including:

Features

Smartwatch Interface

The application can be used on both smartphones and smartwatches, with seamless integration between the two and the physical dummy vape component.

Smartwatch App Features

Integrated System Features

Key features that bridge the physical and digital components:

Systems integration

Outcomes & Learnings

Project Impact

The VapeGuard system offers several significant benefits for users:

  • Addresses both physical habit and chemical dependency aspects of vaping addiction
  • Provides immediate support during critical moments of craving
  • Creates accountability through progress tracking and support networks
  • Offers a sustainable revenue model through subscription services

Key Learnings

Throughout this project, I gained valuable insights about:

  • The complexity of addressing behavioral addictions through design
  • The importance of physical and digital integration in habit-breaking solutions
  • How to balance user needs with technical and business constraints
  • The value of iterative testing and refinement in complex product development
Project Outcomes

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