An attempt to save more bikes from being stolen
The goal of this case study was to design an innovative and effective solution to address the problem of bike thefts. The outcome is Bikebuddy, a anti-theft system that combines a physical device and a mobile application. The physical device is discreetly placed inside the bicycle's handlebar and seamlessly connects to the app. Together, they work to prevent bike thefts, and recover stolen bikes. This case study focuses on the mobile application.
Research findings
The main research method was user survey. Bringing in 100+ answers from bicycle users. Leading up to the survey a competitive analysis was also carried out.
1. Strong emotional connection
Losing a bike are about more than the economic loss. Many bicycle users have an emotional connection to their bikes, losing their bike causes emotional suffering.
2. Hard to get a stolen bike back
Most bicycle users struggles to get their stolen bike back. There’s disapointment in the police ability to assist them, and people are left to ask neghbours and scroll marketplaces. A tactic providing limited results.
3. GPS and alarm solutions are rejected
Most bicycle users refrainin from using GPS and alarm solutions to protect their bike. The named reasons are that it still requires a good cooperation with police to get the bike back, battery management, worry about false alarm and worry about thiefs removing the device.
4. Willigness to pay for good protection
Many bicycle users are willing to pay for good protection. A couple of 100 euros or about 10% of the bikes value.
Security dashboard
The security dashboard provides users with a real-time overview of their bike’s security status, offering insights such as its live location, the distance to nearby security guards, and a safety rating for the parking area based on bike theft statistics. It also gives users quick access to essential security controls, allowing them to activate or deactivate the alarm and choose when, and if, to send security guards to protect their bike. To reinforce peace of mind, the app displays a visual representation of the bike, creating the feeling that it is safe and always within reach—almost as if they have it in their pocket.
The ability to send security guards is an optional feature that’s available through a monthly subscription fee. Made possible through cooperation with a security company, much like how home security alarms work.
Theft alarm
If the physical device detects suspicious movement that suggests a theft attempt, the user immediately receives an alarm notification on their phone. Opening the app reveals the bike’s exact location, a notification that the alarm is sounding, confirmation that the guards are on their way, and how long they have to get there. All the features available when the alarm is activated aims towards stopping the bike from being stolen, or stopping a false alarm.
Area safety rating
Bikebuddy not only aims towards recovering stolen bikes, but also towards preventing theft before it happens. The app provides an area safety rating system based on bike theft statistics, helping cyclists make smarter decisions about where to park. By choosing safer locations, users can reduce the risk of theft and keep their bikes more secure.
