Designing a Mobile App for Delivery Task Management
UI/UX Design
Mobile App Design
Client Name:
Lightfields
Principal Designer
Rashid Alowaisheer
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CHALLENGES
UI Design Incompatible with Driver Needs
Inefficient Return Process
Lack of Task Structure and Route Guidance
Limited Tools and Manual Verification
The delivery process relied on outdated tools and manual coordination. Drivers used a basic mobile barcode scanner that displayed minimal information tied to each order and offered no way to confirm pickups digitally. Without context or integration into the broader system, drivers were often left unsure of where boxes were headed or whether they were properly assigned. This led to frequent delays and miscommunication with the admin team.
Drivers were expected to manage their deliveries independently, with no tool in place to present an ordered or optimized task list. This lack of centralized planning often resulted in inefficient routes and longer delivery times. Because each driver had to figure out their own workflow, the delivery experience varied from one shift to the next, creating inconsistency in service and added strain on both the drivers and the support team.
The return process lacked proper system support, requiring drivers to finish their routes before returning any undelivered orders. This delay in live reporting made it difficult for the admin team to respond promptly or investigate issues as they occurred. Without a direct communication channel or return-logging method, problems often went unresolved until much later.
The existing app’s interface was not designed with real-world delivery conditions in mind. Low contrast colors, small text, and compact tap targets made it difficult to read or interact with the screen while on the move under bright sunlight.These design limitations led to frequent input errors, slower task completion, and a higher cognitive load during already time sensitive workflows.Without accounting for the environmental challenges drivers face daily, the app failed to provide the reliability needed for smooth deliveries.
PROCESS
Interviews
On Field Prototyping
2
Interviews
To understand the real world challenges in the delivery process, interviews were conducted with both delivery drivers and fleet management staff. These conversations uncovered pain points from both perspectives ranging from lack of task clarity and scanning issues to communication breakdowns.The insights gathered directly informed the app’s feature set, ensuring it addressed practical needs rather than assumed ones.
2
On Field Prototyping
Prototypes were tested directly in the field with drivers during live delivery runs. This hands on approach helped validate interface decisions in real delivery conditions, such as outdoor visibility, ease of use while in motion, and the speed of completing actions. Observing how drivers interacted with the app in their environment led to immediate iterations such as adjusting contrast levels, button sizes, and task flows.
SOLUTIONS
Function First UI Design
Smart Scanning and Automated Verification
Structured Task View and Route Optimization
Real-time Return Logging
Function First UI Design
The new app was designed with delivery conditions in mind, prioritizing visibility and ease of interaction over aesthetics. High contrast colors improve readability in bright sunlight, while large bold typography and oversized buttons make key actions easy to spot and tap on the go.The interface supports accurate use in fast paced outdoor environments, reducing input errors and allowing drivers to complete tasks with greater speed and confidence.
Smart Scanning and Automated Verification
The new app introduced a built in scanning feature that allows drivers to scan each box and instantly confirm pickup within the system. This digital verification connects directly to the order data, providing drivers with clear delivery details and instructions. On the backend, each scan updates the admin system in real time, enabling the operations team to monitor delivery activity as it happens. Each step of the workflow is now traceable and time stamped, creating a reliable digital record for both the drivers and the company. The result is a more connected delivery operation with faster communication and improved efficiency.
Structured Task View and Route Optimization
The new app introduced a centralized daily task list that clearly displays each delivery in the correct order, removing the need for drivers to plan routes manually. Deliveries are organized based on proximity, helping drivers move efficiently from one location to the next. This structured layout reduces guesswork, saves time, and ensures consistent deliveries.
Real-time Return Logging
The new app introduced a dedicated return flow that allows drivers to mark an order as “Returned” directly from their app and provide a reason for the return on the spot. This information is instantly synced with the admin system, eliminating the need for drivers to physically bring back undelivered boxes before reporting issues. By enabling real time return logging and communication, the new system reduces delays and improves response times.
DESIGNS
App Screens
App Screens
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