GM IN-VEHICLE EXPERIENCE
Interaction Design - General Motors 2011 - 2013
The purpose of this project was to overhaul GM's global infotainment platform to transition to a new, Android-based experience. Specifically, my role was to design the UI framework including lists, keyboards, tab views, settings and the Home Screen. This required me to understand the needs of each domain (Navigation, Media, Phone, etc.) and design universal templates that could be adapted to each use case. This new infotainment platform launched in February 2017 in the latest Cadillac CTS.
Challenge
Adapting a mobile-centric user interface for an automotive application required extensive rethinking of the existing stock UI framework. For instance, swiping to scroll a list on a dash-mounted display while driving is more difficult than on a handheld mobile device. Also, each domain has unique needs, which unchecked, could create disarray and inconsistency throughout the experience.
LISTS
As a foundational element of the touch experience, Lists were an essential design template across every domain within the infotainment system, including Navigation, Media, Phone, and Settings.
List StyleS
I analyzed two primary list styles and determined the best applications for each. My analysis assumed one column / row of content in order to minimize driver distraction.
Vertical Lists
Text is most important (e.g. song titles)
Widely varying character count (e.g. Contacts)
In-line commands (e.g. 'add to favorites')
Horizontal Lists
Visual is most important (e.g. apps)
Static or consistent character count (e.g. daily weather forecast)
Fewer items in set (e.g. top-level menus)
List Template Components
Header
Elevator
Scrub Bar
Page up/down
Alphanumeric scrollbar (not shown)
Inline Action
Thumbnail (not shown)
Single line list item (not shown)
Double line list item
Production Examples
