Supporting seniors with digital assistant mia

Course

Lean Design

Team

5 months | 2025

Supervision

Prof. Carmen Hartmann-Menzel | Prof. Dr. Susanne Schade

Grade

1,0

Key issue
and relevance

Many seniors want to use digital devices more independently, but complex interfaces, missing feedback and fear of making mistakes often create insecurity. As a result, they frequently depend on relatives or helpers for everyday digital tasks.

Goal

The goal was to develop a supportive system that helps seniors navigate digital applications step by step, while building confidence and digital independence.

Process

Through expert and user interviews, feature prioritization and two rounds of usability testing, the concept was iteratively adapted to the needs, fears and learning habits of the target group.

Outcome

The result is Mia, a digital assistant with a physical button, starter package and learning app that guides users through digital processes in a clear, contextual and reassuring way.

Research leads to understanding, and understanding forms the basis for rules and requirements.

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Transparency & Clarity

Clear, detailed and targeted language

Accessibility & Ease of Use

Age & Skill-Appropriate Design

Consistency & Memory Support

Familiar structures and repeating elements

Simple & Motivating Introduction

Analogue and digital entry points

Traceability

Support through visuals & demonstrations

Safety & Trust

Clear feedback and error avoiding processes

Emotional Connection & Engagement

Warm language and design and accessible help

The components of the mia starter box interlock and offer support at eye level.

The starter box contains the starter booklet with NFC card, which makes it easy to install the Mia app. The Mia button is used to easily activate the assistant. The leaflet provides information on how to attach and use the button. The manual provides further instructions and information in analog form.

The components of the mia starter box interlock and offer support at eye level.

The starter box contains the starter booklet with NFC card, which makes it easy to install the Mia app. The Mia button is used to easily activate the assistant. The leaflet provides information on how to attach and use the button. The manual provides further instructions and information in analog form.

The learning app helps users to
systematically improve their digital skills.

The digital assistant’s learning app offers users step-by-step lessons on a wide range of topics. In addition to theoretical content, the app includes interactive lessons designed to strengthen users’ digital literacy.

Overview of the Learning App Content

The learning app provides a clear structure that guides users through each learning step.

Establish and explain the context

At the beginning of each learning section, the app introduces the topic and explains why it is relevant.

Demonstrate the desired gesture

Learning by imitation is a fundamental learning concept that the app utilizes.

Explain the exercise

Users receive clear instructions on what they need to do during the exercise.

Practice through repetition

Lessons are designed to reinforce movement patterns and rely on the concept of repetition to solidify knowledge.

Reward

After completing the exercise, users receive positive feedback or a reward to stay motivated.

Einfache Aktivierung über Button

Ständige Verfügbarkeit und leichte Auffindbarkeit für sofortige Hilfestellung

Einfache Aktivierung über Button

Ständige Verfügbarkeit und leichte Auffindbarkeit für sofortige Hilfestellung

Einfache Aktivierung über Button

Ständige Verfügbarkeit und leichte Auffindbarkeit für sofortige Hilfestellung

Einfache Aktivierung über Button

Ständige Verfügbarkeit und leichte Auffindbarkeit für sofortige Hilfestellung

Einfache Aktivierung über Button

Ständige Verfügbarkeit und leichte Auffindbarkeit für sofortige Hilfestellung