In 2021, my team launched our app as part of the DePaul University Bridging AI & UX Summer Grant. The program provided funds, guidance, and showcase opportunities to develop a cutting-edge project that incorporated AI for a positive social impact. It was an inspiring experience that highlighted the power of AI in building a better world.
Sprint 1: Personas
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Eco-Conscious Millennial
Name: Emily Green
Age: 29
Occupation: Marketing Specialist
Location: Seattle, WA
Background: Emily is a marketing specialist who works for a tech company in Seattle. She’s passionate about the environment and strives to lead a sustainable lifestyle. She frequently participates in local clean-up events and is always looking for ways to reduce her carbon footprint. -
Busy Parent
Name: James Smith
Age: 36
Occupation: High School Teacher
Location: Austin, TX
Background: James is a high school teacher and father of three. He cares about the environment but finds it challenging to keep up with recycling due to his busy schedule. He wants to teach his kids the importance of recycling and make it a family habit. -
Senior Citizen
Name: Martha Johnson
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired Nurse
Location: Portland, OR
Background: Martha is a retired nurse who is very active in her community. She volunteers at the local community center and is involved in several environmental groups. She is passionate about recycling and often advocates for better recycling programs in her neighborhood.
Sprint 2: Wireframes
Final Sprint:
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Start
During the development and launch of our app, we encountered numerous obstacles that tested our team's resilience and adaptability. One of the biggest challenges we faced was the frequent directional changes that had to be made to the app's features and functionality according to the feedback received from our mentors and beta testers. Coordinating with multiple team members who had different schedules and priorities was another hurdle we had to overcome. We had to ensure effective communication and collaboration to keep everyone on the same page and avoid any delays or misunderstandings.
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Modifications
Moreover, we had to navigate through tight deadlines and time crunches to ensure that everything was polished and ready for our proposal. This involved working long hours, sacrificing personal time, and staying focused and motivated despite the pressure. However, all the hard work and dedication paid off when our app exceeded the judge's expectations during the presentation.
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Final
While we didn't win the award, being the runner-up and inspiring other students to launch their own apps was a true win for me. The experience taught us valuable lessons, including the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and adaptability in achieving our goals.
AFTER THE LAUNCH
AFTER THE LAUNCH
In 2022, Waste Management put forth an ambitious initiative to expand its renewable natural gas plants, automated recycling facilities, and smart trucks, with a multi-billion dollar investment in AI technology. The goal is to achieve greater efficiency and profitability while simultaneously advancing sustainability efforts.
This revolutionary program is poised to transform Waste Management's operations and solidify the company's position as a trailblazing innovator in the waste management industry.