SmokeWise

Three questions to the project team

What was the particular challenge of the project from a UX point of view?
From UX perspective, the SmokeWise project tackled key challenges requiring innovation and iteration. Balancing gamification with privacy needs was crucial; an initial leaderboard approach was abandoned after testing revealed many users valued privacy. This led to the creation of the avatar journey system, allowing users to track progress through customizable avatars—offering motivation without compromising discretion. Simplifying smoking detection was another hurdle; leveraging smartwatch motion sensors reduced reliance on manual logging, ensuring seamless functionality. Recruiting users for research was difficult without incentives, but Reddit communities provided valuable insights, enabling refinements that aligned with real-world needs.

What was your personal highlight in the development process? Was there an aha!-moment, was there a low point?
My personal highlight in the development process was discovering Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and realizing its potential in smoking cessation. This was a true 'aha!' moment, as integrating CBT offered a structured, evidence-based framework to address habits and triggers, significantly enriching the app's value and user impact.

The low point came when the initial gamification strategy—using a leaderboard—failed during testing. It was disheartening to see the approach not resonate with users. However, this challenge pushed me to explore further, ultimately leading to the development of the avatar journey system. This pivot turned a setback into a breakthrough, creating a feature that perfectly balanced engagement and privacy.

Where do you see yourself and the project in the next five years?
In the next five years, I see myself advancing this project from concept to reality. My immediate goal is to present SmokeWise at hackathons to kickstart development, attract collaborators, and refine the app with feedback from experts and users.

Post-hackathon, I aim to secure funding to build and launch the app on a larger scale. Over time, I hope SmokeWise will create a meaningful impact by helping people quit smoking and adopt healthier lifestyles. I envision expanding its features, integrating advanced AI capabilities, and collaborating with healthcare organizations to reach a global audience, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes.