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Design at Open

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Heat Pump Ride-Along

Michele Paini

Heat Pump Ride-Along is an app-based community that connects new and experienced heat pump installers, enabling hands-on learning through volunteer placements and feedback, to boost the number and quality of skilled installers in the UK.

Design Problem 

To design a service or system innovation that supports heating installers in becoming practicing heat pump installers who can confidently deliver a high standard of installation.

Heat Pump Ride-Along is a system innovation in the form of a heat pump installer community where new installers learn and grow by volunteering on established installer's installations. This is facilitated by an app in which users create profiles, add projects, send volunteer requests, and leave feedback for each other. The goal is to increase the number of quality installers in the UK by providing a clear post qualification pathway to further professional development.

Description of the Project

Diagram showing app features: Add Projects, Work Together, Feedback, and more
Support cycle: Heating Installers, Heat Pump Installers, Mentorship, Growth

I used a range of research methods to investigate the problem including information searching, asking questions, interviews, making a persona, and mind mapping. After generating and sketching 8 initial concepts I applied a selection matrix to filter the ideas down to 3. I selected the final concept by creating a table of pros and cons and using an Innovation Landscape Matrix to explore them. I then prototyped the chosen concept using a free app builder, and informed by the research, I developed the structure of the system innovation and its core values.

Process

Round wooden table with twelve chairs
Design process: Ideas, Concept, Shortlist, Screened
App screens showing profile creation, job search, and feedback

I am working towards a BSc Hons in Design and Innovation. My goal is to complete my degree and become an incorporated engineer. I would then like to use this within my profession as a heating engineer and company owner, and to build a portfolio to become a chartered engineer, which will help me to complete significant design and installation projects. I would also like to pursue the realisation of innovative ideas and businesses on this journey, all with the goal of limiting anthropogenic climate change as much as possible.

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