TOUCHCOM

Introduction

I had the privilege of working on the development of the Touchcom door phone system. Our goal was to create a modern and innovative replacement for older, less functional doorphone systems in the Oslo area, with the aim of expanding nationally and eventually globally. Our team consisted of myself, three technicians, and several developers. My main responsibility was to design the user interface for the door phone system, but as the project progressed, I also had the chance to design the mobile app, admin dashboard, and product website.

Scope

Door phone UI, admin dashboard, product's website, mobile app

Role

Design Lead

Date

April 2017 - May 2021

URL

touchcom.no

Research

Research played a critical role in the development of the Touchcom door phone system. When I joined the project, one of my first tasks was to conduct a thorough assessment of the current system to determine its pros and cons. We used this information to identify the essential features that a new door phone system needed and eliminate unnecessary elements.

We conducted extensive research to ensure that we were meeting the needs of our target group, which included end users of all ages, heights, abilities, and levels of technological expertise. This involved conducting user interviews, surveys, and focus groups to better understand the user's pain points and preferences. We also looked at similar products in the market to see what they were doing well and where they fell short.

Hardware

We determined the essential features needed for the new door phone, I used my experience in 3D modeling and hardware design to create a series of prototypes using Fusion 360. This allowed me to experiment with various design options and quickly iterate based on user feedback and testing results.

One of the most important considerations in hardware design is the placement and integration of electronic components. I worked closely with our team of technicians and developers to ensure that the hardware components were optimally positioned and wired together for maximum efficiency and functionality.

Throughout the design process, I conducted thorough testing of all components, including speakers, cameras, screens, power gauges, and more, to ensure that they were functioning properly and met our high standards for quality and performance.

Interface

The visitor panel interfaces for both the 8-inch and 13-inch versions consist of buttons labeled with either residents or companies. Additionally, companies can upload their logos to appear on the respective buttons. The company interface differs from the resident interface as companies have multiple users that can be added to their account.

The layout of both resident and company interfaces are fully customizable through the admin dashboard. The number of rows and columns can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of the building or complex. Additionally, the size of the buttons and logos can be modified to optimize visibility and accessibility for users.

The interface also includes a search field for visitors to easily find the person or company they are looking for. These features were carefully designed to ensure that visitors can easily navigate the interface and quickly find the person or company they are looking for.

Admin dashboard

The admin dashboard is a crucial component of the visitor panel system, providing comprehensive management capabilities for properties and entrances enabling administrators to easily switch between different locations and configurations.

Users and their rights can also be managed through the admin dashboard, with access levels and areas customized to suit the specific needs of each property. Access cards can be assigned and revoked as necessary.

Apartment and office management is another key feature of the admin dashboard, allowing administrators to quickly and easily add or remove residents / employees from the system. This feature is particularly useful for large properties or those with frequently changing tenants.

Finally, the admin dashboard includes a comprehensive log of system changes, making it easy to monitor user activity and identify any potential issues or security concerns. With these features and more, the admin dashboard provides a powerful tool for managing and maintaining the visitor panel system.

Mobile app

Our goal with the mobile application was to create a seamless experience that allows users to receive calls and open the door regardless of the device they are using. Even without the application, users can open the door using DTMF tones.

Through user research, we identified additional features that needed to be implemented, such as call redirection and manual door opening for places that already have surveillance systems.

Product's website

As the final piece of the puzzle, I was also responsible for designing and developing the product website. The primary goal of the website was to showcase all of the features and functions of the Touchcom doorphone panel, admin panel, and mobile application in an easily digestible format.
To achieve this, I worked closely with the marketing team to ensure that the messaging and design of the website accurately reflected the company's brand and values. I also collaborated

In terms of design, I focused heavily on creating a user-friendly experience that would cater to a wide range of potential customers. This meant organizing the website into clear sections that corresponded to the different components of the Touchcom system, as well as using clear, easy-to-understand language throughout.

From a technical perspective, I made sure that the website was fast, responsive, and accessible across all devices. I also integrated analytics tools to track user behavior and measure the effectiveness of the website in converting visitors into customers.

Overall, working on the Touchcom website was a great experience that allowed me to hone my skills in web design and development while also contributing to the success of the overall product.

Conclusion

The project was complex and challenging, it required a wide range of skills and expertise. The project consisted of designing and developing hardware, software, and a website that all worked together to create a seamless and user-friendly experience for residents, companies, and visitors.

The project presented some challenges, including developing the right flow for the mobile application and the calling flow between the Touchcom panel and devices it calls.The development of the admin dashboard also proved to be a complex task, requiring careful consideration of multiple properties and entrances, user access levels and areas, and access cards.

Despite these challenges, the final product was a success, with a range of features that enhance building security and provide a seamless user experience. I am proud to have contributed to a product that combines advanced technology with practical functionality, and look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I gained from this project to future endeavors.