Baran Shajari
Fast Fix Project
What is the Fast Fix Project
The Fast Fix project is a community-designed initiative by iFixit, aimed at reducing electronic waste by providing users with effective and easy-to-follow online repair guides. Its primary objective is to educate individuals on how to fix and reuse their electronic devices, thereby reducing the number of discarded electronics that end up in landfills. By empowering users with knowledge and practical skills, the Fast Fix project is contributing to a more sustainable society.
Procedural Stages
Researching Different Guides
I started by searching different Fast Fix guides to get an idea about the devices I can use. I chose a device and search about different problems it might face. I used different filters in advance setting search to get the content I need efficiently. I also searched for key words and used different videos to learn more about the device.
Documenting Design and Proposal
I documented my ideas using bullet points, emboldening different key words and headings as well as breaking up different information in separate sections. I sent my proposal to iFixit for their approval once the documentation was done.
Draft Repair Guide
I tried to write a simple and easy to follow guide by dividing the work into short steps and making sure there is no unnecessary wordings. I also used different symbols and words that will pop out to the readers for important information.
Photoshoot and Writing
I took shots from different angles and provided straight forward pictures for each step. I cropped and edited my photos from my point of view to match with the user's view of the guide as they scroll down through different steps.
User Testing and Feedback
User testing was done where feedback was given from outside party on the repair guide and vice versa.
Implementing Feedback and Finalizing
I used the feedback I received from both user testing and iFixit and edited my Fast Fix Repair guide so that it will match all requirements on iFixit guideline.
Reflection
Reflecting on my experience, writing the Fix and participating in user testing has taught me a lot about the importance of researching, adapting material for readers, and providing constructive feedback. It was challenging for me to find a device fix since I am not very knowledgeable in fixing different equipment. however, I learned to use different methods to search for solutions to problems, including using key words, filters and videos to look at different devices and different ways it can stop working. I also learned how to test if a document made meets users' needs by going through it with the users and asking them any difficulties they have while doing the procedures.
Further, one of the most valuable lessons I learned was the importance of user testing. By reviewing other people's work and providing feedback, I gained insight into how small changes in different guides can make a significant impact on the final product. Moreover, user testing helped me understand how to effectively communicate ideas with others and provide constructive criticism that encourages improvement. In addition to the technical skills I developed, I also improved my soft skills, such as communication and collaboration through working in teams while user testing and asking teammate feedbacks in class.