UX/UI Design Suggestions to Improve User Experience of Shared E-scooter Application

Objective: This study aims to investigate and propose improvements in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) for shared electric scooter applications. This study examines and integrates the UX/UI enhancements proposed in previous research, focusing on interaction methods for notification confirmation and seeking the most useful approach for users in various scenarios. Additionally, the UX of the proposed design is compared with existing shared electric scooter services to present application design guidelines.<br/>Background: The importance of UX is emphasized in light of technological advancements, particularly in Online to Offline services like shared mobility. Ensuring a user-centered design that considers the UX in both online and offline contexts is crucial during the transition from online to offline. However, current shared e-scooter applications have been criticized for not providing adequate guidance for service usage. Therefore, this study aims to present and evaluate a prototype for improving the UX of shared e-scooter usage.<br/>Method: Usage scenarios for shared electric scooters are defined as (1) initial rental, (2) regular rental, and (3) return, with different methods proposed for users to confirm and dismiss notifications: (1) direct exit, (2) auto exit, and (3) optional check. Based on the design guidelines from previous research, a prototype is created, and a user test is conducted with 20 experienced shared e-scooter users. Participants evaluate usability, usefulness, attractiveness, and reliability after using the prototype, Beam, and Kickgoing.<br/>Results: User evaluations are validated through one-way repeated measure ANOVA or paired t-tests. Users preferred direct exit or optional check methods for notification and exit in various scenarios. The proposed design improvements received higher ratings in usability, reliability, and attractiveness compared to existing services in each scenario.<br/>Conclusion: Based on the analysis results, intuitive and concise information provision is emphasized in the design guidelines for shared e-scooter applications. The guidelines highlight user-controlled services, service usage processes for essential information confirmation, and information provision considering various usage contexts.<br/>Application: This study presents a prototype that comprehensively incorporates design guidelines for improving UX and quantitatively validates their effectiveness. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the development and enhancement of applications for improved UX in shared electric scooter services.