Mesa Recycle Right - UX Research
project overview.
As part of a usability testing project with the City of Mesa under Dr. Stephen Carradini, I analyzed the accuracy and efficiency of the "Recycle Right" print tag distributed to households that place non-recyclable items in their recycling barrels. The goal was to understand how effectively the print tag communicated proper recycling practices to residents.
role.
UX Researcher and Tester
timeline.
August 2024 - November 2024
tools.
Figma, GoogleDocs
challenge.
Non-recyclable contamination in recycling barrels remains a persistent issue in Mesa. The city’s print tag aimed to educate residents on recycling guidelines, but its effectiveness and clarity were uncertain.
user-centered design process.
Conducted four interviews with Mesa residents to gather insights into their experiences with the print tag.
Questions focused on their understanding of the tag’s messaging and suggestions for improvement.
Used the “Think-aloud protocol” to capture their thought processes and challenges in real time.
Confusion About Items - Residents misunderstood the recyclability of items like plastic bags and Styrofoam.
Need for Consistent Visuals - A mix of animated and real images, caused confusion.
Missing Acknowledgement - Lack of positive reinforcement or appreciation for correct recycling.
Never Received the Notice - Some residents reported not receiving any notice before their barrel was removed.
Permanent Reminder - Distribute sturdy informational pamphlet for consistent reference.
Redesign the Tag - Realistic images for commonly misplaced items. Remove “No” from the labels.
Positive Reinforcement - Send quarterly congratulatory notices or emails for correct recycling.
Improve Notification System - Along with the tag, send out warning emails on violation.
recommendations - prototype.
prototype
01/04
Permanent Reminder
Improves accuracy in recycling, reducing contamination rates.
Increased resident satisfaction due to consistent and accessible reminders.
prototype
02/04
Redesign the Tag
Enhanced recognition, making it easier to relate with real objects.
Clear visual hierarchy, makes the important content stand-out.
Improved content, for better and clear understanding.
prototype
03/04
Positive Reinforcement
Sustained positive behaviour, supporting long-term compliance.
Increased satisfaction and sense of acknowledgment.
prototype
04/04
Improve Notification System
Fewer recurring violations, supporting consistent recycling.
Ensures residents receive the notice, improving communication and compliance.
outcomes.
The insights gathered provided actionable recommendations for improving the print tag’s usability and engagement. This feedback will help the City of Mesa refine its recycling messaging and improve compliance among residents.
This project emphasized the importance of user-centered research in evaluating public messaging. By involving end-users in the process, I gained valuable insights into how design and communication strategies can drive behavioral change and improve community programs.
the team.
Mark Aldrin Menezes, Mugdha Mohana Desiraju, Prof. Stephen Carradini, Aanchal Paryani